St. Augustine's Conversion

St. Augustine's friends were boys that bragged about their sexual conquests. He himself had a lover for fifteen years and fathered an illegitimate son. Throughout these experiences, St. Monica continued to pray for the conversion of her son and husband. At the age of 32, St. Augustine heard a young voice tell him to take and read St. Paul’s Epistle to the Romans. St. Augustine was converted. He received baptism from St. Ambrose, returned home, and gave all to the poor. He was consecrated Bishop of Hippo in 395.

St. Augustine’s story reminds us first and foremost, that hope is never lost. God can work and move in the most hardened of hearts for conversion, perhaps when we least expect it. All sin, no matter how grave, can be forgiven if we repent. This is especially good to remember in this year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis. Like St. Monica, we should never tire of praying for the conversion of family members, friends, and acquaintances just as St. Monica prayed unceasingly for the conversion of both her son and her husband. St. Monica’s prayers were eventually answered.

Story by Sara and Justin Kraft

Cover art adapted from - Little House in the Big Woods