Who is St. Monica?
St. Monica of Hippo (A.D. 332–387) was the mother of Augustine, who wrote extensively of her virtues and his life with her in his Confessions. Monica was born in the North African city of Tagaste. As a mother, she sent Augustine to a bishop to be convinced of his errors. The bishop, however, was unable to prevail, and he advised Monica simply to continue to pray for her son, telling her “It is impossible that the son of so many tears should perish.” At the age of 28, Augustine received grace, according to his Confessions. He came to orthodox Christianity and became a great theologian. Monica’s son is now known as St. Augustine. St. Monica’s feast day is May 4.
