He was right. Augustine was baptized in Milan in 387 and became one of the greatest saints in the Church. Monica died a few months later, content. Every mother who prays for a child who seems far away has a friend in her.
Historical Context
Augustine told his mother’s story in his Confessions. He wrote that she wept for him more than most mothers weep for children who have died. Her prayers were not wasted, and neither are yours.
A Mother’s Prayer
Lord, you gave me these children, and they are yours before they are mine.
Protect them in body and soul.
Give me patience when I’m tired and wisdom when I don’t know what to do.
Help me love them as they are,
and guide them into who you made them to be.
When I fail, cover my mistakes with your grace.
Mary, Mother of God, mother them with me.
Amen.
For Little Ones
Jesus, bless my little one as they sleep.
Keep them safe, healthy and happy.
Let them grow up knowing they are loved.
Amen.
For a Teenager
Lord, my child is becoming their own person, and it scares me.
Guard them from harm and from bad choices.
Keep the door between us open.
Amen.
For an Adult Child Who Has Drifted
St Monica, you prayed for your son for years.
Pray with me for mine.
Lord, bring my child home to you, in your time and your way.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Every night, for each child by name.
- On Mother’s Day.
- On 27 August, the feast of St Monica.
- When a child is struggling or far from God.
Scripture Connection
“But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” — Luke 2:19
Mary didn’t understand everything about her son. She kept it, pondered it and stayed close. That’s what most of motherhood looks like.
Related prayers
For children, see the Birthday Prayer for Daughter, Birthday Prayer for Son and Short Prayer for My Son. For grandmothers, the Grandmother’s Prayer.