St Monica wept and prayed for years for the conversion of her son Augustine, who became one of the greatest saints. She is the patroness of mothers and of all who pray for a loved one who has strayed.
The Prayer
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,
that they may learn to draw their children to God.
Teach them how to remain close to their 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 son.
Grant me that same fortitude, patience, and trust in the Lord.
Intercede for me, dear St Monica,
that God may favorably hear my plea. (Mention your request.) Amen.
When to Pray This Prayer
On her feast (August 27), for the conversion of children and loved ones, and in long-suffering, persevering prayer.
About This Prayer
St Monica (331 to 387) prayed for nearly twenty years for her son's conversion. Her patience and unwavering hope are a model for every parent who carries a child to God in prayer.
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Text: traditional prayer to St Monica.