The Augustinians (The Order of Saint Augustine) takes its name from our spiritual patron (or father) Saint Augustine of Hippo. As a young man, Saint Augustine was a spiritual searcher with an enquiring mind. He followed a (non-Christian) religious movement called Manichaeism, before discovering that Jesus was a real and alive presence at the centre of his life.
Saint Augustine is not our founder. In fact, his life (354-430 CE) was over 800 years before the formation of the Order in two stages in 1244 and 1256 CE. Nevertheless, the teaching of Saint Augustine has been an inspiration for our Order. A key document for us is The Rule of Saint Augustine which the Saint wrote as a guide for people living in a religious community.
Like the Franciscans, Dominicans, and Carmelites we are one of the mendicants (meaning 'begging) religious orders that emerged in 13th century Europe where commercial urban centres were growing at that time.
Though the church had been well served by the large monastic communities, there was now the need of a newer form of religious life that would preach and serve in the urban centres. These apostolic fraternities would live among the people they served in communities. They would depend on the people for their livelihood, hence the title 'mendicant'.
The Augustinians first were first formed by decree of the Pope from a group of hermits in Tuscany in 1244. There was a joining with other groups in 1256, again by decree of the Pope.
The new Order quickly spread throughout Europe. In the 16th century missionary expansion beyond Europe began. Today Augustinian friars (both brothers and priests) serve in almost 50 nations in every continental region.
The Gospel values that are highlighted in Augustinian religious life are: commitment to being a supportive and loving community of brothers living in a spirit of friendship; searching for God with a restless heart in response to God's longing for each of one of us; and loving service of the Christ's Body, the Church. The Augustinians serve in pastoral ministry, education and studies, missionary service, and a range of specific ministries here in Australia and in mission areas like South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand. Come and discern your calling to religious life with us.
Join us and be part of our Augustinian story. Want to hear from us? Contact Vocations Director Fr Saldie Resolado, osa via email saldie.resolado@osa.org.au
Visit osa.org.au to explore the story of the Order of Saint Augustine.
