About St. Augustine
St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430) was one of the most influential theologians and philosophers in Christian history, whose writings profoundly shaped both Catholic and Protestant thought. Born Aurelius Augustinus in Roman North Africa (present-day Algeria), he lived a worldly life in his youth, fathering a son and following various philosophical schools while his devout mother, St. Monica, prayed fervently for his conversion.
After years of intellectual searching through Manichaeism and Neo-Platonism, Augustine experienced a dramatic conversion in 386 while reading St. Paul’s letters in a Milan garden. He famously heard a child’s voice saying “Take up and read,” leading him to embrace Christianity fully. He was baptized by St. Ambrose of Milan the following year.
Returning to North Africa, Augustine became Bishop of Hippo in 395, where he served for 35 years. He was a prolific writer, producing over 100 works including his autobiographical “Confessions” and the monumental “City of God.” His theological insights on grace, original sin, predestination, and the nature of time became foundational to Christian doctrine.
Augustine defended orthodoxy against major heresies of his day, particularly Donatism and Pelagianism. His famous prayer “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you” captures his understanding of the human longing for God.
He died in 430 as the Vandals besieged Hippo. Declared a Doctor of the Church, his feast day is August 28. He remains the patron saint of brewers, printers, and theologians, and his Rule continues to guide Augustinian religious communities worldwide.
Prayers & Devotions
