August 27, 2017 
Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Monica (332-387)
Monica was the mother of Augustine of Hippo, a difficult young man who became a great theologian and bishop. He did everything he could to avoid God, but Monica never stopped praying for him. She once declared, “Nothing is far from God.” This applied to Augustine too. Even though changing her son’s heart looked hopeless, she had faith, and he did turn his life around. (Taken from "Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
To most people, Monica's son, Saint Augustine, seemed like a lost cause. Few could imagine any way that he would eventually become a Christian. Saint Monica, however, trusted in the power of God. Year after year, she persevered in her prayer to God on Augustine's behalf. She is an example of the importance of perseverance. She reminds us that, even if we don't immediately receive that for which we pray, we should never stop praying.
Prayer
Dear God, help me to pursue you and your will with the ardor and insistence of Saint Monica.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 121
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Isaiah 22:19-23
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 138:1-2, 2-3, 6, 8
Reading 2: Romans 11:33-36
Alleluia: Matthew 16:18
Gospel: Matthew 16:13-20
View complete readings on USCCB.org
