Jesus invites us today, in the Gospel of Luke, to "strive to enter through the narrow gate." Salvation is not automatic. Thus, we need to "strengthen our drooping hands and our weak knees" (Hebrews 12:12), and live disciplined lives so that we can one day enter God's Kingdom. The Book of Hebrews speaks of the "cloud of witnesses" who surround us on our journey to heaven. These are the saints who want nothing more than for us to join them around the banquet table of the Lord in heaven. That is why we honor the saints and seek their intercession to spur us on to victory.   
This week, we honor three great saints whose example and powerful intercession can help us on our Christian journey:

l Monday, August 27, is the feast of St. Monica (387 A.D.), patron saint of mothers. After 30 years of prayer, she obtained the conversion of her dissolute pagan husband, as well as the conversion of her eldest son, Augustine. She is a model of perseverance in prayer for all parents whose children are not practicing their faith or have lost their faith.

l Tuesday, August 28, is the feast of St. Augustine, son of St. Monica, who was baptized at the age of 33 after living a dissolute life. After his conversion, he became a strong and faithful Christian, and, eventually, became the Bishop of Hippo in North Africa. His Confessions and City of God are among the greatest writings of Christian spirituality in our Tradition.

l Finally, on Wednesday, August 29, we celebrate the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist. Our parish and school patron saint was beheaded by King Herod at the request of his wife, Herodias. She was upset with John the Baptist because he had reproved Herod because of his unlawful marriage. We ask the intercession of our patron saint that we might be faithful and courageous witnesses to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

When we hear of tragedies such as the 35W Bridge collapse, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc., we know that there are those who are called "first responders." These law enforcement and emergency personnel provide us with an invaluable service.  They are there, on the scene, providing for the emergency needs of people whose lives have been so abruptly changed. We can take their services for granted.  Archbishop Harry J. Flynn invites all of us to the Third Annual Mass of Remembrance to honor Law Enforcement & Emergency Personnel on Saturday, September 8, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Paul.

This is always a very moving Mass, during which the names of those who have died in the line of duty are read. Law
enforcement and emergency personnel process in with the Archbishop and sit at the front of the Cathedral. 

We show our appreciation to those who place their lives in danger to protect the common good. Plan to bring your family to the Cathedral to honor these men and women. And, if you know a police officer, firefighter, or other first responder, extend to them a personal invitation. It's a great way to say "thank you!" to these public servants.

Dear St. Monica, patroness of all parents, please take our children, especially those who have turned from the ways of Christ and His Church, under your protection. Let them always remain faithful to their baptismal vows. Give them the strength to walks always in the ways of the Lord, despite the temptations and false values they find in the world today. Pray for them that they may share with you the joys of eternal life. Amen.