St. Monica of Hippo

St. Monica was the mother of St. Augustine. Though she was a devout Christian, she was arranged in marriage to a pagan with a violent temper who would not let her baptize their children. Monica lived for decades praying for her husband and children's souls, and eventually her prayerful dedication led to her husband's conversion shortly before his death. She later befriended St. Ambrose, who was instrumental in her son Augustine's highly influential conversion.


Lifetime: 331 to 387
Region: Western Roman Empire
Patronages: Disappointing children; Conversion of relatives; Difficult marriages
Iconograpy: Lamentation scroll; Accompanying St. Augustine; Widow's weaves (black mourning clothes)
Feast Day: May 4 (Eastern, Anglican); August 27 (Roman Catholic)

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