Catholic Momcast | Lenten Reflections | women's history month | Holy Women's History Month
Saint Monica is a treasure to me. Some saints are hard to connect with. As much as I love and admire Saint Joan of Arc, it’s hard to connect her life with mine. Same with Saint Catherine of Siena.
I was just starting my conversion path to Catholicism when we moved into our home only a few blocks from Saint Monica’s Catholic Church. It has been our parish home for more than 20 years.
Our youngest son went to the parish school from kindergarten through eighth grade. I have dozens of friends I’ve met over the years through the school or the parish, and whether it’s issues with husbands or our children, we’ve all offered it up to Saint Monica’s intercession.
Prefer to Listen—Audio version available!
An Example of Perseverance in Prayer
Saint Monica’s persistence in prayer is especially compelling to me. As a mom to two adult boys — one newly married with a baby on the way, and one who has lived abroad for almost nine years — there is a never-ending list of things to pray about. And I find myself praying for the same things repeatedly — just as Saint Monica did.
For safety and protection, health and well-being, and happiness. For both sons to follow God’s will in all their decisions. Repeat daily ad infinitum.
Some moms I know have been praying for years for their children’s release from addiction, for their return to the Church, for resolved family divisions, for physical and mental healing, and for their departed souls.
A Powerful Intercessor
Although I knew nothing about Saint Monica when we joined the parish, I quickly discerned that it was no coincidence that God had led us there. Thankfully, I do not have a tyrant husband or a domineering mother-in-law, but I do have family members and friends who have fallen away from their faith. I pray daily for their hearts to hear God’s voice and that they be led back to Him.
If you have prayer concerns, especially surrounding your children or family, look to Saint Monica’s example and continue to pray for them. It may take years to see God’s plan fulfilled in our lives and those we pray for, but we must never lose faith.
During Women's History Month, Catholic Mom writers are celebrating the women who have inspired their faith journeys — whether canonized saints, saints in progress, or beloved women from Scripture. Through personal reflections and heartfelt stories, they share how these holy women have touched their lives, offering wisdom, strength, and a deeper connection to God. Join us as we honor the spiritual legacy of these remarkable women and the lasting impact they continue to have on our hearts and souls.
Copyright 2025 Cathi Kennedy
Images: Holy Cross Family Ministries