Looking for Monicas

Throughout my life I’ve been challenged by reading about Monica, the mother of one of the great church fathers, Augustine. It’s so moving to hear of her desperate prayers for her wayward son and her heartbreak at his deception in sailing for his new job in Italy without her. Learning that his voyage brought him to the place where he would find Christ has inspired me many times in my own prayers.

Recently, however, I’ve been challenged in a new way by reading the book Sacred Friendships: Celebrating the Legacy of Women Heroes of the Faith by Robert Kellemen and Susan Ellis, recently published by BMH Books. Chapter Two points out how Monica, in her dying days, directed the conversation to God and His eternal hope.

But it’s the questions at the end of the chapter that are keeping me awake at night. On question is, “What would it be like to have a mother like Monica who uses spiritual conversations to provide authentic spiritual friendship and spiritual direction?” Can you picture it? Can you see a girl you work with becoming that kind of a spiritual mother?

Then, the final question that gets to the heart of what matters to us as disciplers: “What can the church today do to equip more Monicas?”

Any suggestions? Please post them so we can learn from each other.