Homily for the Memorial of St. Monica

St. Monica, whose Memorial we celebrate today, had to deal with many of the same family issues that a lot of people have to deal with, even today. She was married to a man who had many good qualities, but he had a bad temper. She had a very difficult relationship with her mother-in-law. And she worried about her son, Augustine, who lived a life very far from her Christian values and lifestyle. So much so, that she wouldn’t even allow him to stay at the family home.

 

One night, Monica had a vision that gave her the confidence that he would return to Christianity and live a better life. She remained close to him and prayed and sacrificed that he might return to the faith.

 

Eventually, he did and today St. Augustine is regarded as one of the greatest Christian leaders and writers of all time.

 

Let us pray… Loving Father, through the intercession of St. Monica, may we be granted the same fortitude, patience, and trust in you that filled her mind, heart, and soul. Help us to accept your will in all things. Through Christ our LORD. Amen.+