Today we
remember and give thanks for Monica, Mother of Augustine. A native of North Africa, Monica (A.D.
333–387) was the devoted mother of Saint Augustine. Throughout her life she
sought the spiritual welfare of her children, especially that of her brilliant
son, Augustine. Widowed at a young age, she devoted herself to her family,
praying many years for Augustine’s conversion. When Augustine left North Africa
to go to Italy, she followed him to Rome and then to Milan. There she had the
joy of witnessing her son’s conversion to the Christian faith. Weakened by her
travels, Monica died at Ostia, Italy on the journey she had hoped would take
her back to her native Africa.
Collect of the Day:
O Lord, You strengthened Your patient servant Monica through
spiritual discipline to persevere in offering her love, her prayers, and her
tears for the conversion of her husband and of Augustine, their son. Deepen our devotion to bring others, even our
own family, to acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, who with You and
the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and forever.
No comments:
Post a Comment