Today, the Church honors Saint Monica, a model of perseverance in prayer. She reminds us never to give up on our loved ones, no matter how far they may seem from God.
Prayer of the Day
O God of mercy and love,
Through the intercession of Saint Monica, grant me patience and steadfastness in prayer. Help me trust in Your timing and never lose hope in the conversion and salvation of my loved ones. May my faith, like hers, be a light to others and a source of encouragement in times of trial.Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Mass Reading of the Day
First Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Paul recalls his labor and preaching, urging believers to accept the word of God not as human teaching, but as God’s own word.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 139:7-12
“You have searched me and you know me, Lord.”
Gospel: Matthew 23:27-32
Jesus denounces hypocrisy, warning against honoring prophets while rejecting their message.
Saint of the Day: Saint Monica (332–387)
The mother of Saint Augustine, she is remembered for her tireless prayers and unwavering faith that ultimately led to the conversion of her son, one of the greatest Doctors of the Church.
5 Interesting Facts about Saint Monica
- She was born in Tagaste (modern-day Algeria).
- Married to a pagan, Patricius, whose conversion she won through prayer.
- She prayed unceasingly for over 17 years for the conversion of her son, Augustine.
- Her persistence was rewarded when Augustine was baptized by Saint Ambrose.
- She died in Ostia, Italy, just before she was to return to Africa with Augustine
