Saint Paulinus of Nola

Biography

Saint Paulinus of Nola, also known as Meropius Pontius Anicius Paulinus, was a distinguished lawyer and a devoted friend to Saint Augustine of Hippo and Saint Nicetas of Remesiana. His holiness was acknowledged and praised by at least six of his contemporaries who were also recognized as saints. Paulinus began his life in public service, holding various important positions in the Empire. However, after a period of time, he retired from his public ministry along with his wife, Therasia. Together, they traveled to Bordeaux, France, where they were both baptized in the Catholic faith. The couple then settled on Therasia's estate in Spain. Sadly, their joy was short-lived as their only son passed away at a very young age. This tragic event led Paulinus and Therasia to dedicate the remainder of their lives to God and increase their pursuit of holiness. Saint Paulinus embraced a life of service and devotion to God. He was ordained as a priest and, together with Therasia, relocated to Nola, Italy. Motivated by their love for the poor, they generously gave away their remaining property and focused on assisting those in need. Paulinus' reputation for compassion and his commitment to aiding the less fortunate quickly gained him wide acclaim among the people. Due to his exceptional character and his dedication to the well-being of the community, Paulinus was elected as the bishop of Nola by popular demand. He accepted this position and tirelessly guided the diocese for over 21 years, all while living as a monk in his own home. Paulinus continued to selflessly aid the poor and those in need throughout his entire episcopate. During his life, Saint Paulinus composed various writings that demonstrated his deep faith and intellectual capabilities. Notably, he is credited with creating one of the earliest Christian wedding hymns, a testimony to his understanding of the importance of marriage within the context of the Church. Saint Paulinus of Nola is often depicted in artwork as a bishop giving alms to the poor, holding chains, or holding manacles, symbolizing his commitment to the liberation of the oppressed and the marginalized. His life and actions exemplify the virtues of empathy, charity, and selflessness that defined the early Christian Church. Born around 354 in Burdigala, Gaul (modern-day Bordeaux, France), Saint Paulinus lived a long and fruitful life dedicated to the service of God and his fellow human beings. He passed away on 22 June 431 of natural causes. While Saint Paulinus was not officially canonized by the Church, his sanctity and impact on the faithful were recognized even before the current process of canonization was established. Thus, he is considered a saint according to the Pre-Congregation era of the Catholic Church. Saint Paulinus of Nola is honored as the patron saint of Sutera, Italy, where his memory is celebrated on his feast day, which falls on the 22nd of June each year. His life serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to emulate his devoutness, his love for the poor, and his dedication to the service of God.