Today we celebrate Saint Monica, the mother whose years of prayer, tears, patience, and unwavering hope accompanied her son Augustine on one of the most famous conversions in Christian history.

Augustine abandoned Christianity, embraced another religion, pursued worldly ambition, and even sailed away after deceiving his mother. Monica continued praying. Eventually, Augustine encountered Saint Ambrose, returned to Christ, and was baptized into the Catholic Church.

He would become Saint Augustine, Bishop and Doctor of the Church.

Saint Monica's story reminds everyone praying for someone who has left the faith that we cannot always see what God's grace is doing beneath the surface.

Scripture

"Pray constantly."

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Thought to Remember

"It cannot be that the son of these tears should perish."

Words traditionally spoken to Saint Monica by a bishop, recorded by Saint Augustine

Monica could not control Augustine's choices. But she could place him continually before God. When someone we love walks away from the faith, our hope is not in our ability to change them. Our hope is in the mercy of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Saint Monica, teach us to persevere when our prayers seem unanswered. Help us to love without controlling, hope without despairing, and trust God when we cannot see what He is doing. Intercede especially for our families and everyone we love who has wandered from Christ.

Saint Monica, pray for us. Amen.

Please like, comment, share, and subscribe to @TravelingtoDamascus as we continue our journey through the lives of the saints, one day at a time.

#SaintMonica #SaintAugustine #SaintsInAYear #Day300 #CatholicSaints #Catholic #Prayer #CatholicMothers #Conversion #TheRoadToDamascus