Saint of the Day: St. Augustine | August 28

By SIDTP SoCom

Published on August 28, 2024

St. Augustine of Hippo, born on November 13, 354, in Tagaste (modern-day Algeria), is one of the most influential figures in Christian history. His profound writings and conversion story have had a lasting impact on Christian theology and philosophy.

Augustine was born to Monica, a devout Christian, and Patricius, a pagan. From a young age, Augustine was intellectually curious and excelled in his studies. However, his early life was marked by a pursuit of pleasure and a wayward lifestyle, including a prolonged period of living with his partner and fathering a child out of wedlock.

Augustine’s spiritual journey took a significant turn during his time in Milan. Influenced by the preaching of St. Ambrose and the prayers of his mother, Monica, he experienced a dramatic conversion to Christianity in 386. He was baptized by Ambrose in 387, marking a profound shift in his life. Augustine then returned to North Africa, where he was ordained a priest in 391 and later became the Bishop of Hippo in 396.

St. Augustine’s theological writings and works have had a significant influence on Western Christianity. His most famous works include **”Confessions”**, an autobiographical account of his conversion and spiritual journey, and **”The City of God”**, a treatise that addresses the relationship between the earthly and heavenly realms and the role of the Church in a fallen world. These writings continue to be studied and revered for their deep insights into the nature of God, grace, and human nature.

Augustine also played a crucial role in addressing various theological controversies of his time. He defended the Church against the Donatists, who challenged the legitimacy of the sacraments performed by priests who had lapsed in their faith, and he argued against Pelagianism, which denied the need for divine grace in achieving salvation.

He died on August 28, 430, during the siege of Hippo by the Vandals. St. Augustine was canonized as a saint and declared a Doctor of the Church for his significant contributions to Christian theology and doctrine. His feast day is celebrated on August 28.

St. Augustine’s life and writings continue to inspire Christians around the world. His profound reflections on faith, grace, and human nature remain central to Christian thought, and his example of conversion and intellectual pursuit encourages believers to seek deeper understanding and a closer relationship with God.

 

Sources:

1. “St. Augustine of Hippo” entry from the Catholic Encyclopedia:
– The Catholic Encyclopedia. (n.d.). St. Augustine of Hippo. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from [https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02084a.htm](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02084a.html).