St Augustine, as we know from his writings and those around him, including St Monica (who we read about yesterday), converted to Christianity later in life. His early youth was marked by a life of dissipation and sin, and he counted himself a pagan as did his father. From writings we know Saint Monica persisted in his conversion, literally tracking him down and staying with him until he converted.
Today he is a saint whose writings and faith have led many to Christ. His life demonstrates like so many saints including St Peter and St Paul, that even those who deny Christ can be transformed into saints.
Today I urge all of us to recognize that no matter where we are in our journey we too are called to sainthood. Not just to be followers. Not to excel at worship or prayers but to be saints who shine the light of Christ so brightly others see it and are inspired.
You see we are all given the light of Christ. Each of us hold a torch of ttruth, love, and joy. We must share this light with those around us. That is why we are here. Everything else is secondary.
Our work, our actions, and our fears. All must come second to shining the light for others.
Are we living as one called to sainthood today? If not, we are failing in our discipleship. Sainthood is the calling of all of us. It is our mission and path to heaven. Do not fall into the common belief that sainthood is for those other holy people who are unlike us. They are all exactly like us except they woke up one day and realized who they were and made the conscious choice to act on what they saw as the truth of Jesus Christ.
It is time all of us wake up and begin just as St Augustine did with his mothers help, just as St. Peter did after he denied him, just as St Paul did after he was struck blind.
What will be required for us? For us today yes truly yes to our own call. Yes. We are called to be holy and to be saints. That is our path to eternal life.
Deacon Tony Pynes 
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