Monica's son Augustine refused to accept baptism and lived a passionate life with his mistress. For years Monica prayed, fasted, and cried silently for Augustine.
God heard and answered these prayers of this faithful mother. Augustine, abandoning his sinful ways, accepted baptism from St. Ambrose of Milan, on Easter Sunday, 387 AD.
St. Monica died secure in the knowledge that her son had heard God’s call and her work on earth was finished.
St. Monica is the patron saint of lapsed Catholics. Her feast is celebrated on August 27.
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Daily Novena Prayer to St. Monica
Exemplary mother of the Great Augustine, you perseveringly pursued your wayward son…not with wild threats but with prayerful cries to heaven. Intercede for all mothers in our day so that they may learn to draw their children to God.
Teach us to remain close to all God’s children, even the prodigal sons and daughters who have sadly gone astray.
Dear St. Monica, troubled wife and mother, many sorrows pierced your heart during your lifetime. Yet, you never despaired or lost faith. With confidence, persistence, and profound faith, you prayed daily for the conversion of your beloved husband, Patricius and your beloved son, St. Augustine.
Grant me that same fortitude, patience, and trust in the Lord. Intercede
for me, dear St. Monica, that God may favorably hear my plea for (names of those you are praying for) and grant me the grace to accept His will in all things, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever. Amen.
Pray Hail Mary 3 times
Pray Glory Be 3 times
St. Monica, pray for us
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Today we pray for all those who believe in their hearts but are fearful of judgment or institutions. May they find the support and joy of belonging to our Church community. (Pray Novena Prayers)
