The Saint Monica Novena For Those Who Have Fallen Away Starts August 18th

The Saint Monica novena for those who have fallen away from the Church starts August 18th. St. Monica is most known for her intercessory prayers on behalf of individuals that have abandoned the Faith, as she prayed for the conversion of her son, the great Doctor of the Church, Saint Augustine of Hippo, for 15 years.

What we know of St. Monica comes almost entirely from the writings of St. Augustine. Their relationship was close, especially in Monica's final years. One episode from her childhood suggests the origin of her fortitude. She was occasionally sent to the cellar to draw wine for the family, and fell into the habit of taking secret drinks. Before long she was consuming large amounts. One day a family slave caught her. So great was her shame, she gave up the habit. A short time later, Monica was baptized. Afterward, she led a life of irreproachable virtue.

St. Monica is also the patron saint of alcoholics, married women, mothers, wives, and difficult marriages.

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