The Basics: Born about 383 in what is now Italy; died 439 in what is now Israel; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, December 31. Philanthropist.
The Story: Some call Melania (not to be confused with her saintly grandmother, Melania the Elder) the greatest religious philanthropist of all time. The child of a Roman senator,
Melania was married off young against her will. Two of the couple’s children died in infancy, and as a result, her husband agreed he would honor her desires to serve God. When Melania’s father died, she, her husband and her mother departed Rome. Melania as the beneficiary of his vast estate freed thousands of slaves in two years and set up numerous churches and monasteries and facilities to help the sick and the poor. After several adventures, the trio ended up in Jerusalem where Melania through her cousin, St. Paula of Rome, became involved in a spiritual group that included St. Jerome. Her husband and mother died about fifteen years thereafter; near their tombs, Melania established a convent where she served as superior.
What We Can Learn from Melania: We can’t take it with us, but we can use our financial resources wisely and to help others while we’re here. Put the money you would spend today on coffee or lunch in your parish’s poor box or collection. It won’t pinch at all, since you planned to spend it anyway, but it might make all the difference to the ultimate recipient.
To Learn More About Melania: The Orthodox Church in America, which also honors Melania, has an excellent biography of her.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
