Feast Day: March 14
Death: March 14, 1107
Blessed Pauline of Thuringia, also known as Pauline of Fulda, Pauline of Hirsau, Pauline of Münsterschwarzach, Pauline of Zell, Paolina, or Paulina, was born to the Saxon nobility in an unknown year. Not much is known about her early life, including her birth date or parents' names.
Pauline entered into marriage at some point in her life, although the details surrounding this marriage are sparse. Unfortunately, she became a widow, but she eventually remarried to Sir Ulric de Scharaplan. Together, they had children and built a family.
However, tragedy struck once again, as Pauline was left a widow for the second time. It was during this time of grief that Pauline felt called to devote herself entirely to the service of God. Inspired by her newfound purpose, she made the decision to found a double monastery in the Thuringian Forest.
Pauline's double monastery was a unique establishment that provided a place for both monks and nuns to live in a dedicated spiritual community. She gathered like-minded individuals who were seeking a life of deep prayer, contemplation, and service to God. This monastic community became known for its commitment to both prayer and work, as the members sought to combine their spiritual pursuits with practical labor.
In fulfilling her vision for the double monastery, Pauline decided to enter the community herself as a nun. She embraced a life of simplicity, poverty, and devotion to God, setting an example for the other members of the community. Pauline's leadership and strong spiritual presence helped the monastery flourish, attracting new members and becoming a beacon of faith in the Thuringian Forest.
Throughout her life, Pauline dedicated herself to the pursuit of holiness and the care of her fellow sisters and monks. Her selfless service and commitment to prayer inspired those around her to deepen their own faith and grow closer to God. Her compassion and wisdom earned her the reverence and respect of the community she nurtured.
Blessed Pauline of Thuringia passed away on 14 March 1107 in Fulda, Germany, from natural causes. Her legacy, however, continues to live on as her devotees remember her life of devotion and selflessness. While she is not widely known outside of certain Catholic circles, her impact on the monastic community and her example of faithfulness endure as an inspiration for all who seek a deeper relationship with God.