An Unwed Father Who Became A Bishop

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Today is the feast day of St. Augustine, son of St. Monica.

When I did a quick net search on the life of St. Augustine, I was surprised to find out  that he converted from his "wandering" life only at the age of 32. I thought his conversion to a virtuous life was earlier in his life.

On top of that, he "contracted an illicit relationship" with a woman who bore him an  intellectually gifted son named Adeodatus. Viewed in another way, St. Augustine was an unwed father.

But God works in mysterious and merciful ways.  St. Augustine eventually became a bishop and a popular saint that he is today-- considered the patron of brewers because  of

"his conversion from a former life of loose living, which included parties, entertainment, and worldly ambitions. His complete turnaround and conversion has been an inspiration to many who struggle with a particular vice or habit they long to break."

God works mysteriously on us too today.  His mercy is for always.