Monica shed tears due to her son’s lack of faith and worldly ways. Yet, she prayed for Augustine and, after many years, her prayers were answered. He converted and led others to Christ. Monica reminds parents: Never lose heart; keep praying; and entrust your children to God.

If you are experiencing restlessness in life, perhaps our Lord is asking you to dwell with him. Try spending extra moments with him in prayer and quiet today and a little more time “being” instead of “doing.” St. Augustine: “Lord, our hearts are restless until they rest in you.”

John the Baptist’s persecutors did not ask him to deny Christ. They asked him to be silent and to stop speaking the truth. His refusal cost him his life. May we imitate his courage and never be silent when we witness evil and any form of injustice, no matter the cost!

Our Lord calls us to be ready and prepared to meet him when he calls us home. We do not know not the day nor hour so have a sense of urgency. Today is the time to leave behind all that is not of God and to return to him with all your heart. Stay vigilant!

Instead of thinking of your limitations and weaknesses, reflect upon the talents and abilities Our Lord has given you. We did not earn them. They are pure gifts. We will show our thanks by using our talents and abilities to do some good today and to serve God and others.

St. James says: “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.” Doers of God’s Word follow his commands; pray fervently; live honorably, justly, and purely; respond generously to those in need; treat all people with respect; and forgive one another. Be recognized today as a “doer!”

The ultimate purpose of our work is to praise God and to serve one another. If we work in such a way we have a vocation, not just a job. On this Labor Day, we also pray for those who are unemployed or underemployed asking God to grant them the dignity of work and a just wage.

St. Gregory the Great says: “You don’t climb a mountain in leaps and bounds, but by taking it slowly.” As you strive to grow in faith, holiness, and charity, be patient with yourself and rely more and more on God’s grace - day by day.

Amid the demands of his ministry, Jesus would withdraw to a “deserted place” to be with his Father. Each day we need to do the same; to step away from our many activities and simply be with God. Make time today to spend in your “deserted place.” There, you will find peace.

As we continue to pray for peace in our world and nation, St. Teresa of Calcutta reminds us: “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” She tells us how to work for peace: “Do not wait for world leaders. Do it alone, person to person.”

We may get frustrated with our weaknesses, flaws, and repeated sins. The Evil One wants us to think we can never change for then we will stop trying. Yet, Jesus promises to make us a “new creation” if only we seek his mercy and rely on his love. It is never too late!

What a profound blessing and privilege it was to dedicate the altar of our mother church in the Diocese of Arlington yesterday. I have great gratitude to God and to all those who made our Golden Jubilee celebration possible. Through the intercession of Mary our Mother, Saint

St. Paul tells us how followers of Jesus are called to live: “When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently.” May our example today and the way we treat others show that we belong to Christ!

Ask the Lord to touch your ears and lips with his healing love so you may listen attentively to him and one another and always speak charitably saying only the good things people need to hear. In these ways, we give praise to God.

St. Peter Claver states that words alone are never sufficient in confronting evil. Today, pray for peace and unity in our communities and an end to all forms of violence, racism, and injustice. Be sure to embrace all those you encounter with respect, gentleness, and kindness.

When Jesus summoned the Twelve, he called them by name. Jesus also calls you by name and embraces you as his beloved. So, when you speak to the Lord in prayer, do not think of yourself as a stranger. Be assured that Jesus knows you in an intimate way and calls you by name.

On the anniversary of this tragic day in our nation’s history, we pray for all those who died and for ongoing strength and consolation for their loved ones. Pray daily that God will protect us and our country and fill all the world with the peace only he can give.

As we celebrate the Most Holy Name of Mary, perhaps you can honor her today by praying the Rosary or saying the Hail Mary several times throughout the day. Also, know the power of the name of Mary, the one who accompanies and protects us. Invoke her powerful intercession.

Jesus asks: “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?” We must not spend our time criticizing others but, rather, look within to see what needs to change in us. Likely, there will be work to do and God will help!

Today’s Feast celebrates the truth that by his Holy Cross, Christ has redeemed the world. Thus, we do not despair when we are given a heavy cross to carry. We see it as a way to unite ourselves more closely to Jesus; to grow in holiness; and to rely on the strength God provides.