Saint Augustine
Augustine of Hippo, commonly known as Saint Augustine, was an early Christian theologian and philosopher whose writings influenced the development of Western Christianity and Western philosophy. He was born on November 13, 354, in Tagaste (modern-day Algeria) and died on August 28, 430, in Hippo Regius (also in modern-day Algeria).
Here are some key points about Augustine:
- Early Life and Conversion:
- Augustine was initially not a Christian. He spent his youth indulging in a hedonistic lifestyle and adhered to Manichaeism, a religious sect that combined elements of Christianity with Zoroastrianism.
- He later converted to Christianity at the age of 31, influenced by the prayers of his devout Christian mother, Monica, and the teachings of Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan.
- Major Works:
- “Confessions“: An autobiographical work that details his sinful youth and his conversion to Christianity. It is considered one of the greatest Christian classics.
- “The City of God“: Written in response to the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410. This work contrasts the “City of Man” with the “City of God” and outlines a vision of history in which the latter ultimately triumphs.
- “On Christian Doctrine“: A treatise on biblical hermeneutics and the interpretation of scripture.
- Philosophical and Theological Contributions:
- Legacy:
- Augustine is considered one of the Church Fathers and a Doctor of the Church in Roman Catholicism.
- His works have had a lasting impact on both theology and philosophy, influencing thinkers such as Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, and John Calvin.
Saint Augustine’s feast day is celebrated on August 28, the date of his death. His life and works continue to be studied and revered for their deep insights into Christian theology and philosophy.
The Transformation of a Soul
Conversion of Saint Augustine
The story of Saint Augustine’s conversion is one of the most profound and inspiring tales in the history of Christianity. It is a journey from skepticism and hedonism to devout faith and theological brilliance. Augustine’s transformation from a restless seeker to a revered saint and Doctor of the Church is not only a testament to his intellectual and spiritual rigor but also a beacon of hope for all who struggle with doubt and moral failings. This article delves into the pivotal moments of Augustine’s conversion, highlighting the influences and experiences that shaped his journey to Christianity.
Early Life and Intellectual Pursuits
Born on November 13, 354, in Tagaste (modern-day Souk Ahras, Algeria), Augustine was the son of a pagan father, Patricius, and a devout Christian mother, Monica. From a young age, Augustine displayed remarkable intellectual abilities, which were nurtured by his mother’s unwavering hope that he would embrace Christianity. However, Augustine’s early life was marked by a pursuit of pleasure and worldly success rather than spiritual fulfillment.
Augustine was sent to Carthage to study rhetoric, a prestigious discipline in the Roman Empire. It was during this period that he indulged in a hedonistic lifestyle, pursuing various sensual pleasures and forming a relationship with a woman who would bear him a son, Adeodatus. Despite his mother’s prayers and admonitions, Augustine was drawn further away from the faith she cherished.
Manichaeism and the Search for Truth
In his quest for truth and meaning, Augustine embraced Manichaeism, a religious movement founded by the prophet Mani, which combined elements of Christianity with Persian Zoroastrianism. Manichaeism presented a dualistic view of the world, positing a constant struggle between the forces of light and darkness. This religion initially satisfied Augustine’s intellectual and spiritual curiosity by offering explanations for the existence of evil and the nature of the universe.
However, Augustine’s association with Manichaeism was short-lived. His sharp intellect and relentless pursuit of truth soon led to disillusionment with the inconsistencies and lack of empirical evidence in Manichaean teachings. This dissatisfaction propelled him towards skepticism, leaving him in a state of spiritual limbo.
Influence of Ambrose and Neoplatonism
Augustine’s journey took a decisive turn when he moved to Milan in 384 to take up a prestigious position as a professor of rhetoric. It was in Milan that he encountered Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan, whose eloquence and intellectual depth left a lasting impression on Augustine. Unlike the Manichaean leaders, Ambrose could match Augustine’s intellectual rigor and provided compelling interpretations of Christian doctrine.
Ambrose’s influence, coupled with Augustine’s engagement with Neoplatonism, a philosophical system that emphasized the existence of a single source of goodness and truth, gradually dismantled Augustine’s remaining barriers to Christianity. Neoplatonism helped Augustine reconcile the existence of evil with the notion of a benevolent God, offering a philosophical foundation that complemented Christian teachings.
The Garden Conversion
The pivotal moment in Augustine’s conversion occurred in the summer of 386 in a garden in Milan. Tormented by his inability to fully commit to a Christian life, Augustine experienced an intense spiritual crisis. He later recounted this moment in his autobiographical work, “Confessions.”
As Augustine wrestled with his inner turmoil, he heard a child’s voice chanting, “Tolle, lege” (“Take up and read“). Interpreting this as a divine command, he picked up a copy of the Scriptures and read from the Epistle to the Romans: “Not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying: But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof” (Romans 13:13-14).
These words struck Augustine with profound clarity, leading to a moment of spiritual awakening. His intellectual objections were dissolved by a deep, personal encounter with the divine, and he resolved to embrace Christianity fully.
Baptism and Commitment to Faith
Following his conversion, Augustine sought baptism from Ambrose, which he received during the Easter Vigil in 387, along with his son Adeodatus. This marked the beginning of Augustine’s new life dedicated to God. He resigned from his teaching position and returned to Africa, where he formed a monastic community and eventually became the Bishop of Hippo.
In his subsequent years, Augustine wrote extensively, producing works that would shape Christian theology for centuries. His writings, such as “Confessions” and “The City of God,” reflect a profound understanding of human nature, grace, and divine providence.
Legacy of Conversion
Augustine’s conversion is more than a personal story; it is a powerful narrative of the transformative power of faith and the relentless pursuit of truth. His journey from a life of worldly pleasures to one of devout service to God continues to inspire countless individuals across different faith traditions.
The tale of Augustine’s conversion underscores the idea that intellectual inquiry and faith need not be mutually exclusive. His life is a testament to the fact that even the most skeptical minds can find solace and fulfillment in spiritual truth.
Saint Augustine’s conversion remains a cornerstone of Christian history, offering a timeless message of hope, redemption, and the unending quest for divine wisdom. His story encourages us to embrace our own journeys with an open heart and mind, trusting that, like Augustine, we too can find our way to the truth that sets us free.
What is the augustine order, or the community he founded
The Augustine Order, also known as the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA), is a Catholic religious order that follows the Rule of Saint Augustine. While Augustine himself did not found the order, his teachings and monastic practices deeply influenced its formation.
Historical Background and Formation
The Order of Saint Augustine traces its origins to various groups of hermits and monks who followed the rule and spiritual practices of Saint Augustine. These groups were formally united into a single order by Pope Innocent IV in 1244 through the Grand Union, which sought to consolidate several communities of hermits into one cohesive order. This unification aimed to create a more organized and structured religious community, fostering a shared commitment to the Augustinian way of life.
The Rule of Saint Augustine
The Rule of Saint Augustine, which serves as the foundation for the order’s way of life, emphasizes community living, prayer, and the pursuit of love and truth. The Rule is relatively brief and focuses on the following key principles:
- Community Life: Members live together in a community, sharing resources and supporting one another in their spiritual and daily lives.
- Prayer and Contemplation: Regular prayer and contemplation are central to the order’s practices, helping members to grow closer to God.
- Service and Apostolate: The order is committed to various forms of apostolic work, including education, pastoral care, and missionary activities.
- Poverty and Simplicity: Members take vows of poverty, living a simple life devoid of personal wealth and possessions.
- Chastity and Obedience: Members also take vows of chastity and obedience, dedicating their lives to God and the community.
Influence and Activities
The Augustinians have made significant contributions to the Church and society through their educational, pastoral, and missionary work. They have established numerous schools, colleges, and universities around the world, including prestigious institutions like Villanova University in the United States and Universidad de San Agustín in the Philippines.
The order is also involved in various social and charitable activities, including caring for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. Augustinians serve in parishes, hospitals, and other institutions, embodying the principles of love, service, and community life outlined in the Rule of Saint Augustine.
Spiritual Legacy
The spiritual legacy of Saint Augustine is central to the order’s identity. His writings, particularly “Confessions” and “The City of God,” continue to inspire Augustinians in their pursuit of truth, love, and a deeper understanding of God. The order seeks to live out Augustine’s vision of a community united in faith and love, dedicated to the service of God and humanity.
Modern Presence
Today, the Order of Saint Augustine operates globally, with communities in many countries across continents. The order continues to adapt to contemporary challenges while remaining faithful to its core principles. Through their commitment to education, social justice, and spiritual development, Augustinians strive to make a positive impact on the world, guided by the enduring wisdom of Saint Augustine.
In summary, the Order of Saint Augustine is a religious community deeply rooted in the teachings and spiritual practices of Saint Augustine. It emphasizes community life, prayer, service, and the pursuit of truth, reflecting the values and vision of its patron saint. Through their diverse apostolic activities, the Augustinians continue to contribute significantly to the Church and society, embodying the timeless principles of their spiritual heritage.
Online resources for Saint Augustine of Hippo and the Order of Saint Augustine
Here are some valuable online resources for learning more about Saint Augustine of Hippo and the Order of Saint Augustine:
Saint Augustine of Hippo
- New Advent – Catholic Encyclopedia: St. Augustine of Hippo
- New Advent: St. Augustine of Hippo
- Comprehensive biography and theological contributions of St. Augustine.
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Augustine
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Augustine
- Scholarly articles on Augustine’s philosophy and theological impact.
- Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL)
- CCEL: Works of Augustine
- Access to many of Augustine’s writings, including “Confessions” and “The City of God.”
- The Augustine of Hippo Page
- The Augustine of Hippo Page
- Detailed information about Augustine’s life, works, and influence.
Order of Saint Augustine
- Order of Saint Augustine (OSA) Official Website
- Order of Saint Augustine (OSA)
- Official site with information about the order’s mission, history, and current activities.
- Augustinians International
- Augustinians International
- News and updates about the global Augustinian community.
- Villanova University – Augustinian Heritage
- Villanova University: Augustinian Heritage
- Resources and information about the Augustinian tradition in education.
- Augustinian Spirituality – The Augustinians
- Augustinian Spirituality
- Exploration of the spiritual principles and practices based on Augustine’s teachings.
- Project Muse: Augustinian Studies
- Project Muse: Augustinian Studies
- Academic journal focusing on Augustine’s life, theology, and the order.
General Resources
- Internet Archive – Free Access to Augustine’s Works
- Internet Archive: Augustine
- Free downloadable versions of Augustine’s writings and related texts.
- Academia.edu – Papers on Augustine and Augustinian Order
- Academia.edu
- Search for scholarly papers on Augustine and the Augustinian Order.
These resources offer a wide range of information, from detailed biographical sketches and theological analyses to access to Augustine’s writings and insights into the Augustinian Order’s contemporary activities and spiritual heritage.
