St. Augustine of Hippo

Feast Day: August 28

“You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” – St. Augustine

St. Augustine of Hippo is one of the greatest saints and doctors of the Church, renowned for his brilliant mind, profound writings, and powerful conversion story. His feast day, celebrated on August 28, honors his journey from a life of sin to a life wholly dedicated to God.

A Restless Heart Searching for Truth

Augustine was born in 354 in Tagaste, North Africa (modern-day Algeria), to a Christian mother, St. Monica, and a pagan father. Though Monica raised him in the Christian faith, Augustine drifted away as a young man, pursuing worldly pleasures, ambition, and false philosophies.

For many years, he lived a life far from God, embracing a hedonistic lifestyle and subscribing to the heretical philosophy of Manichaeism. Despite his outward success as a scholar and teacher of rhetoric, his soul remained restless and unfulfilled.

Conversion Through Truth and Grace

Throughout his years of wandering, Augustine was never far from the prayers and tears of his mother, St. Monica. In Milan, he came under the influence of St. Ambrose, whose preaching and example opened Augustine’s heart to the truth of the Catholic faith.

In 386, after a profound personal struggle, Augustine experienced a dramatic conversion. Moved by the words “Take and read”, he opened the Scriptures and read from St. Paul’s letter to the Romans, which pierced his heart. He was baptized by St. Ambrose at the Easter Vigil in 387, alongside his son.

Bishop, Theologian, and Doctor of the Church

Augustine returned to North Africa and eventually became the Bishop of Hippo, where he served for over thirty years. As bishop, he was a tireless preacher, teacher, and defender of the faith.

His writings shaped the course of Christian theology for centuries. His most famous works include Confessions, a spiritual autobiography detailing his journey to God, and The City of God, which reflects on the relationship between the earthly and the heavenly kingdoms.

A Lasting Legacy of Faith and Wisdom

St. Augustine died in 430 during the siege of Hippo. He was canonized by popular acclaim and later declared a Doctor of the Church, recognized for the depth and influence of his theological writings.

He is the patron saint of theologians, philosophers, and seekers of truth, as well as those who struggle with sin and conversion.

A Witness to God’s Mercy

St. Augustine’s life is a powerful testimony to God’s infinite mercy and the truth that no one is beyond redemption. His story continues to inspire all who seek meaning, purpose, and the peace that can only be found in God.

St. Augustine of Hippo, pray for us!