June 20th - St. Paulinus Of Nola By: Anjali Thomas

Today’s commemorated saint is Saint Paulinus of Nola. He was born near Bordeaux and was the son of the Roman prefect of Gaul who had many properties in both Gaul and Italy. Paulinus became a lawyer and had many public offices in the Roman Empire and was able to retire with his wife, Therasia at an early age. They tried for many years to have a child but only had a son who died a week after birth. This began Paulinus and Therasia’s life of charity and gave away most of their property. This eventually resulted in Paulinus becoming a priest by the Bishop of Barcelona. He and his wife moved to Nola, gave away most of his remaining property and continued to work for the poor. By popular demand, Paulinus was made bishop of Nola and he guided the diocese for 21 years. Sadly, Paulinus last years were saddened by the invasion of the Huns. A few of his writings include the earliest version of the Christian wedding song. 

INTERCESSORY PRAYER 
Lord, you made Saint Paulinus renowned for his love of poverty. May we who celebrate his witness to the gospel imitate his example of love for others. Through our Lord Jesus, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen