Saint Paulinus of Nola

Paulinus of Nola, Spain, lived in the fourth century. He wrote letters to and received replies from Ambrose, Jerome, Gregory, Martin, and Augustine.

Paulinus was a wealthy lawyer, governor, and poet. He was married to a rich Spanish noblewoman named Therasia. In 389, both of them were baptized. Later, they had a son, Celsus, who died after only eight days. Paulinus and Therasia decided to give their wealth to people who were poor and to live a simple life. People admired and loved Paulinus so much for his Christian witness that they wanted him to become a priest. Eventually, he did become a priest and a bishop. Paulinus used the first floor of his home as a place where debtors, wanderers, and those who were poor could find shelter. On the second floor, Paulinus and a few other men lived like monks. Therasia took care of the household. In 431, Paulinus died. One of his last acts was to give to those in need 50 silver pieces that he had just received as a donation.

Suggestions

Have the students name married people who support each other in doing good.

Encourage the students to reflect on how they can simplify their lifestyles.

• Do you borrow and lend items, or must you own everything?

• Do you have clothes in your closet that you don’t wear, even though they still fit?

• Are you careful to turn off lights and water?

• Do you ask your parents to buy expensive food or games or to take you to expensive places?

• Are you satisfied with what you have?

Excerpted from Christ Our Life, by Sisters of Notre Dame of Chardon, Ohio

Image credit: Statue of Saint Paulinus of Nola by unknown artist, unknown date. Public Domain via Wikimedia.