Saint Monica (c. 331-387) was the mother of Saint Augustine. Born in Numidia (present-day Algeria), she was married to a violent pagan, Patricius, whom she managed to convert to Christianity. She suffered from the dissolute life of her son Augustine and prayed tirelessly for his conversion. After years of trials, her prayers were answered: Augustine converted and was baptized by Saint Ambrose in Milan in 387. Shortly after, Monica died in Ostia, Italy, in peace and faith. She is the patron saint of Christian mothers and wives. Her cult spread to Lorraine and Europe.
