Augustine and His Praying Mother.

Augustine of Hippo, was born in 354 AD in Thagaste, a small town in Roman North Africa (modern-day Algeria). He became a renowned Christian theologian and philosopher of the late Roman Empire. His life and conversion are deeply intertwined with the influence of his devoutly Christian mother, Monica.  He initially resisted her Christian influence. His father, Patricus, was a pagan. Augustine’s journey from a life of worldly indulgence to becoming one of the most influential Christian thinkers in history is a testament to the power of prayer and maternal love.

In his early years, Augustine pursued a secular education and developed a passion for rhetoric and philosophy. He moved to Carthage to further his studies and quickly embraced a hedonistic lifestyle and philosophical inquiries that challenged his mother’s Christian influence. During this period, he became involved in a tumultuous relationship and fathered a child out of wedlock.

Monica, deeply concerned about her son’s spiritual well-being, prayed fervently for his conversion for many years. She sought guidance from local church leaders, who advised her to be patient and steadfast in her prayers. Her unwavering faith and persistence earned her the reputation of a pious woman who refused to give up on her wayward son.

The turning point in Augustine’s life came in 386 AD, (age 32) when he was in Milan. There, he encountered the influential Christian bishop and theologian,  Ambrose. Augustine was deeply impressed by Ambrose’s preaching and the intellectual depth of Christian theology. Gradually, he began to see the emptiness of his worldly pursuits and the allure of Christianity.

During this transformative period, Augustine grappled with profound spiritual and intellectual questions. He struggled with the concept of evil, the nature of God, and the problem of free will. His inner turmoil is famously documented in his autobiographical work, “Confessions,” which provides a detailed account of his journey toward conversion.

Augustine’s conversion climaxed in a moment of profound spiritual awakening in a garden in Milan. He heard a child’s voice saying, “Take up and read,” prompting him to open the Bible to a random passage. His eyes fell on Romans 13:13-14, which urged him to forsake his sinful life and “put on the Lord Jesus Christ.” Overwhelmed by the experience, Augustine converted to Christianity and was baptized by Ambrose.

Monica’s relentless prayers and unwavering faith had finally been answered. She witnessed her son’s conversion and his commitment to a life of Christian devotion. Her joy was short-lived, however, as she passed away shortly after Augustine’s baptism.

Augustine went on to become one of the most influential Christian theologians and philosophers in history. His writings, including “Confessions” and “City of God,” have profoundly shaped Western Christian thought. His journey from a life of worldly indulgence to Christian enlightenment stands as a powerful example of the transformative and redemptive power of the Holy Spirit and the enduring love of a praying mother, Monica. If you are praying for wayward children, though they now be adults, take Monica’s example and keep it up!