The phrase refers to a way of participating with the writings and ideas of St. Augustine of Hippo every day. It suggests a structured method to studying his works, reflecting on his concepts, and incorporating his insights into one’s every day life. For instance, people would possibly learn a brief passage from Confessions every morning and ponder its that means all through the day.
Such a apply presents potential advantages for private and mental progress. Constant publicity to Augustine’s philosophical and theological views can foster a deeper understanding of self, religion, and the human situation. Traditionally, engagement with Augustine’s writings has influenced numerous thinkers and formed Western thought. The every day rhythm encourages sustained reflection past an off-the-cuff studying.
Following is a deeper exploration into the important thing themes current in St. Augustines writings and the way a deliberate, constant method to learning them would possibly improve comprehension of these subjects.
1. Religious Autobiography
The chronicle of Augustine’s life, notably inside Confessions, supplies a profound instance of non secular autobiography. Approaching this textual content “augustine daily” permits readers to incrementally soak up the nuances of his self-examination, making a sustained alternative to replicate upon parallels inside their very own lives. It is a journey of self-discovery undertaken alongside a grasp of introspection.
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Examination of Conscience
Augustine meticulously scrutinized his motivations and actions, a apply reflecting the necessity for continuous self-awareness. Contemplate the instance of his theft of pears as a youth. He didn’t commit the act out of want or perhaps a want for the fruit itself however, quite, out of a eager for companionship in wrongdoing. This rigorous self-assessment serves as a information, prompting people to query their very own underlying needs and motivations when confronted with ethical decisions. Daily examination fosters a relentless consciousness of those examinations.
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The Energy of Confession
Augustine’s Confessions is not merely a recital of sins; it is a testomony to the transformative energy of acknowledging these sins earlier than God. His willingness to put naked his failings, from youthful indiscretions to mental pleasure, supplies a mannequin for honest repentance. The method of articulating one’s personal shortcomings, particularly over time, can result in acceptance and progress, facilitating a deeper relationship with the divine.
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Conversion as Course of
Augustine’s conversion wasn’t a singular occasion however a gradual awakening. The seeds of religion had been planted early in his life by his mom, Monica. Doubts and temptations examined him. Finding out him every day can spotlight that true religion, like Augustine’s, is commonly solid within the fires of battle and doubt. It demonstrates that non secular progress requires persistent effort and steady engagement with one’s beliefs.
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The Seek for That means
Past sin and repentance, Augustine’s autobiography chronicles his quest for that means and function. He sought achievement in worldly pursuitsrhetoric, ambition, fleeting relationshipsbut discovered lasting satisfaction solely in God. This steady looking for reminds people that true achievement comes not from materials possessions or exterior validation, however from connecting with a better function. A every day method permits for introspection on one’s personal pursuits.
These sides spotlight the ability of non secular autobiography as a device for self-understanding and transformation. Partaking with Augustine’s journey “augustine daily” presents a structured alternative to discover one’s personal inside panorama, fostering private progress and a deeper reference to religion. Studying a web page every day can yield great fruit for contemplation.
2. Philosophical Inquiry
Augustine’s mind was not merely theological; it engaged deeply with the philosophical currents of his time. His embrace of Neoplatonism, as an illustration, formed his understanding of God and the character of actuality, offering a framework to reconcile religion with purpose. Contemplating this facet “augustine daily” permits the sluggish absorption of advanced philosophical ideas into one’s considering. It’s akin to watching a talented artisan slowly reveal the shape hidden inside a block of marble, chipping away at misconceptions till the reality begins to emerge. With out this measured method, the preliminary complexity of his philosophical engagements would possibly overwhelm the reader, obscuring the profound insights they provide.
One can take into account Augustine’s grappling with the issue of evil as a sensible demonstration. He sought to reconcile the existence of a benevolent God with the presence of struggling on the earth. Slightly than providing simplistic solutions, he delved into the character of free will and the constraints of human understanding. The every day reflection on these philosophical issues encourages the same method to up to date challenges, emphasizing nuanced reasoning quite than fast conclusions. It is sort of a craftsman meticulously refining a device, sharpening its edge for exact software. The device of philosophical reasoning, honed by every day engagement, permits for simpler navigation of life’s complexities.
In essence, integrating philosophical inquiry into the every day research of Augustine’s works cultivates a deeper understanding of each his thought and the enduring questions he addressed. This technique not solely illuminates the historic context of his writings but additionally strengthens one’s personal capacity to suppose critically and interact thoughtfully with advanced points. The methodical method, nevertheless, necessitates endurance and a willingness to wrestle with difficult concepts. The profit is a extra profound understanding of Augustine’s work and a sharper philosophical thoughts.
3. Confessions’ Relevance
Throughout the centuries, Augustine’s Confessions maintains an astonishing energy to resonate with readers. This enduring relevance, when explored “augustine daily,” unfolds in layers, revealing its profound affect on the person and society.
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The Universality of Human Expertise
Augustine grapples with elementary human struggles: temptation, doubt, the seek for that means, and the need for connection. These experiences transcend time and tradition, making Confessions relatable to anybody who has wrestled with their very own inside demons. Encountering these struggles piece by piece permits them to be built-in into one’s personal self-reflection, daily. As an example, his recounting of stolen pears isn’t just the story of a petty crime; it’s an exploration of the human want to transgress. Its reflection on motivations transcends age.
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Honesty and Vulnerability
Augustine’s unflinching honesty about his personal flaws and failings creates a way of intimacy with the reader. His willingness to be weak permits others to confront their very own vulnerabilities with out disgrace. Contemplate his relationship together with his mom, Monica. He doesn’t painting himself as an ideal son, however overtly describes moments of battle and resistance. Such moments supply a potent reminder that even in shut relationships, battle and battle are inevitable and that honesty is important for genuine connection. This honesty makes the textual content accessible for every day examination.
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The Energy of Redemption
Confessions will not be merely a narrative of sin; it’s a story of redemption. Augustine’s transformation from a stressed seeker to a faithful servant of God presents hope and inspiration. It demonstrates that even essentially the most wayward particular person can discover function and that means in life. Daily, readers can take solace in the concept they, too, may be remodeled, that they can also overcome their previous errors and construct a greater future. His religion offers hope.
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A Mannequin for Self-Reflection
Augustine’s meticulous self-examination serves as a mannequin for anybody looking for to know themselves higher. He prompts readers to ask troublesome questions on their very own motivations, needs, and beliefs. Contemplate his exploration of time. He doesn’t merely outline time in a philosophical sense, however displays on the way it shapes our experiences and perceptions. This encourages readers to look at their very own relationship with time, to contemplate how they spend their days, and to prioritize what actually issues. This ongoing self-reflection is supported by constant research.
These sides, absorbed “augustine daily,” construct right into a profound understanding of the work’s ongoing energy. Via constant studying, Confessions presents not simply historic insights however a information to navigating the challenges of up to date life, revealing humanity’s timeless seek for that means and function.
4. Theological Depth
Augustine’s contributions to Christian theology are substantial, establishing doctrines that proceed to resonate inside spiritual thought. Partaking with these theological ideas “augustine daily” permits for a gradual assimilation of advanced concepts. Think about a sculptor working with granite: Every cautious strike of the chisel reveals extra of the statue hidden inside. A every day method to Augustine’s theology features equally, slowly unveiling layers of that means and understanding. To hurry by means of Metropolis of God or his treatises on the Trinity is to threat lacking the intricate particulars that contribute to the overarching theological framework. The every day reflection permits for contemplation of these intricacies.
Contemplate Augustine’s doctrine of authentic sin. It’s a advanced idea, suggesting that every one people inherit a fallen nature from Adam. To know its implications, one should take into account its affect on Augustine’s understanding of grace, free will, and the character of salvation. Each day reflection permits readers to slowly unravel connections. One other instance lies in his idea of the Trinity, a core tenet of Christian perception, which defies simple comprehension. To grapple with this thriller, one should take into account the assorted analogies Augustine employed the lover, the beloved, and the love that binds them every providing a special perspective on the character of God. “augustine daily” supplies the time needed to contemplate every perspective.
The apply of learning these profound themes in small increments fosters a deeper, extra nuanced understanding. It turns into extra than simply an educational train. It is an introspective journey, difficult beliefs, and pushing the boundaries of religion. Whereas navigating Augustine’s theological depth requires endurance and mental rigor, the rewards are substantial: A richer, extra profound comprehension of Christian thought, and a deeper appreciation for the enduring energy of theological inquiry. The every day cadence is the important thing.
5. Grace and Free Will
The intertwined ideas of grace and free will stand as a central pillar in Augustine’s theological framework, a paradox he wrestled with all through his life. To grasp their delicate steadiness “augustine daily” permits a sustained encounter together with his evolving thought, a sluggish unfolding of his insights that mirrors the very strategy of non secular maturation he described. The absence of 1 threatens to undermine the opposite: With out grace, human striving stays futile, a Sisyphean process of infinite effort devoid of final that means; with out free will, human actions turn into mere puppets dancing on the strings of divine predetermination, stripping people of ethical duty. Augustine, recognizing this, labored to articulate a system the place divine initiative and human company might coexist. It’s a stroll by means of the desert of doubt to the oasis of understanding.
Contemplate the parable of a talented archer aiming at a distant goal. The archer embodies human free will, the flexibility to decide on, to purpose, to attract again the bow. Nonetheless, the wind represents divine grace, an unseen pressure that may both deflect the arrow or information it true. The archer can try with all ability and would possibly, but if the wind is antagonistic, the arrow will miss its mark. The wind doesn’t negate the archer’s effort however quite influences its trajectory. Equally, Augustine argued, human beings possess the capability to decide on, but divine grace is critical to direct these decisions towards salvation. Each day contemplation of this will change one’s coronary heart and actions. The significance of those subjects is to seek out the right steadiness in life’s journey, utilizing free will to discover a path to religion.
Navigating the complexities of grace and free will stays a problem. Some argue that Augustine leans towards predestination, minimizing human company. Others emphasize his insistence on ethical duty, highlighting the significance of particular person selection. The every day engagement together with his works supplies a chance to discover these differing interpretations, to grapple with the inherent ambiguities, and to reach at a nuanced understanding that respects each the ability of divine grace and the importance of human company. Like a sailor charting a course between Scylla and Charybdis, such an understanding calls for fixed vigilance and a willingness to regulate one’s sails to the prevailing winds. That is achievable by means of steady and fixed research of Augustine’s classes. The fruits of those subjects is a harmonious relation with God and the world.
6. Metropolis of God’s Imaginative and prescient
Augustine’s Metropolis of God presents a sweeping imaginative and prescient of historical past, juxtaposing the earthly metropolis, pushed by self-interest, with the heavenly metropolis, guided by divine love. Understanding this grand narrative “augustine daily” is akin to watching a tapestry slowly woven, its threads of philosophy, theology, and historical past step by step revealing a fancy and profound design.
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Two Cities, One Actuality
Augustine didn’t envision two bodily separate cities however, quite, two allegorical communities intertwined throughout the similar earthly realm. Residents of each the Metropolis of God and the Metropolis of Man coexist, their allegiance outlined not by geography however by their dominant loves: love of self versus love of God. An instance is that one may be in a holy land however not be of God, and one could possibly be within the worst possible circumstances and nonetheless be of God. Considering this distinction every day permits for discerning the underlying motivations that form actions and societies.
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The Move of Historical past
Augustine reinterpreted historical past as a providential narrative, guided by God’s plan. The rise and fall of empires, the conflicts and alliances between nations, all contribute to the unfolding of God’s function. A every day studying apply helps to step again from speedy considerations and undertake a broader perspective, viewing present occasions throughout the context of a bigger, divinely orchestrated drama. The stream of historical past is barely as priceless as what the reader does with the data discovered.
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Earthly Peace, Heavenly Hope
Augustine acknowledged the significance of striving for earthly peace and justice, even whereas acknowledging their limitations. The pursuit of earthly items mustn’t overshadow the final word purpose of heavenly citizenship. He means that participation in society is a civic obligation, however that devotion to God ought to all the time be the precedence. Exploring this rigidity every day encourages the event of a balanced perspective, fostering engagement on the earth whereas sustaining a concentrate on everlasting values. It permits an individual to stroll the earth and have their eyes seeking to the heavens.
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The Church as Pilgrim
For Augustine, the Church on earth is a pilgrim, journeying in direction of its final vacation spot within the Metropolis of God. It isn’t an ideal establishment however a group of imperfect people striving in direction of holiness. The every day research of Augustine’s imaginative and prescient reinforces the understanding that the Church is a dynamic entity, continually evolving and adapting to the challenges of its time, however all the time guided by the sunshine of religion. On this, persons are extra than simply members however the literal palms of God to enact good on the earth.
These sides, thought-about by means of the lens of “augustine daily,” reveal a profound and enduring imaginative and prescient of historical past, society, and the human situation. The Metropolis of God will not be merely a theological treatise however a information to navigating the complexities of earthly life whereas protecting one’s gaze fastened on everlasting realities. Augustine invitations a metamorphosis by means of constant devotion, with outcomes on the earth.
7. Internal Reflection
Internal reflection, the quiet contemplation of 1’s ideas, feelings, and experiences, finds a robust ally within the apply of participating with Augustine’s writings “augustine daily.” It’s by means of this sustained, deliberate introspection, prompted by Augustine’s personal profound self-examination, that one can unlock the transformative potential of his work. This isn’t a passive endeavor, however an energetic participation in a dialogue with a thoughts that has grappled with the elemental questions of human existence.
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Cultivating Self-Consciousness
Augustine’s Confessions serves as a mannequin for unflinching self-scrutiny. He lays naked his previous failings, not out of self-flagellation, however out of a want to know the trajectory of his soul. Equally, the “augustine daily” method cultivates a behavior of analyzing one’s personal motivations and actions with honesty and readability. Think about a craftsman fastidiously inspecting a chunk of labor, noting imperfections and looking for to refine the ultimate product. The act of self-awareness will not be about discovering fault, however quite about understanding the uncooked materials with which one is working, with the purpose of shaping it into one thing extra virtuous.
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Discovering That means in Expertise
Life is commonly a chaotic jumble of occasions, sensations, and relationships. Augustine, by means of his philosophical and theological reflections, sought to seek out that means inside this obvious chaos. In the identical manner, participating together with his writings every day can present a framework for decoding one’s personal experiences. It isn’t about imposing a that means, however quite about discovering the inherent connections between one’s inside life and the broader sweep of existence. Contemplate a gardener tending to a plot of land: Every plant, every weed, every change in climate contributes to the general ecosystem. So too, every facet of expertise may be considered as a element within the tapestry of 1’s life, revealing patterns and connections that may in any other case stay hidden.
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Confronting Private Weaknesses
Augustine didn’t draw back from acknowledging his personal weaknesses and temptations. He acknowledged that these imperfections weren’t insurmountable obstacles however quite alternatives for progress. A every day encounter together with his writings fosters the same acceptance of 1’s personal flaws. It’s akin to a warrior dealing with an opponent: Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy is important for creating a profitable technique. Equally, acknowledging one’s personal weaknesses permits for the event of methods for overcoming them, remodeling them into sources of power.
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Connecting with the Divine
For Augustine, inside reflection was finally a method of connecting with God. It was by means of the quiet contemplation of his personal soul that he got here to know the presence of the divine inside him. In the identical manner, the “augustine daily” method can function a non secular apply, a method of deepening one’s relationship with the transcendent. It is sort of a musician tuning an instrument: The purpose will not be merely to supply sound, however quite to create concord, to align oneself with a better order of being. This connection is achieved by means of steady engagement.
In essence, the apply of “augustine daily” presents a structured framework for inside reflection, guided by the knowledge of a person who spent his life grappling with the elemental questions of human existence. It’s an invite to interact in a lifelong strategy of self-discovery, meaning-making, and non secular progress, resulting in a deeper understanding of oneself and a richer reference to the divine. On this, religion within the divine is augmented by the works on the earth.
8. Transformative Religion
Transformative religion, the type that reshapes one’s life from the within out, typically begins with a flicker. This flicker, within the context of Augustine’s thought, is likely to be sparked by a single sentence learn, an idea contemplated, or a prayer uttered. The self-discipline of “augustine daily” cultivates this flicker, tending to it like a fragile flame in a harsh wind. Think about a sculptor confronted with a block of marble: the preliminary kind is hidden, obscured by the stone itself. It’s by means of constant chipping, refining, and sprucing that the ultimate sculpture emerges, revealing the sweetness inside. So too, transformative religion requires constant engagement, a every day chiseling away at doubt and complacency to disclose the divine picture inside.
Contemplate the lifetime of a modern-day social employee, tirelessly dedicating time to a group riddled with poverty and despair. Initially, the work could also be pushed by a way of obligation or a want to alleviate struggling. Nonetheless, by means of the regular software of “augustine daily,” maybe studying Augustine’s reflections on charity and justice, a deeper understanding emerges. The work transcends mere obligation, turning into an expression of real love and compassion. This shift in motivation, from exterior strain to inner conviction, exemplifies transformative religion in motion. The social employee is not merely performing a job; a calling is being lived out.
The problem lies in sustaining the every day self-discipline. Life’s calls for typically conspire to interrupt the stream, to extinguish the flame. But, it’s exactly throughout these instances of hardship and distraction that the apply of “augustine daily” turns into most significant. Even a couple of minutes of quiet reflection can function an anchor, grounding the person within the rules of religion and offering power to persevere. The journey in direction of transformative religion will not be a dash however a marathon, requiring endurance, endurance, and a unwavering dedication to the every day apply that sustains it. In the end, the constant effort is rewarded by actions on the earth that create lasting legacy and a greater existence for all.
Often Requested Questions
Many embark on the journey of participating with Augustines thought, typically encountering preliminary questions and uncertainties. The next addresses some ceaselessly voiced considerations, providing steering gleaned from the experiences of others who’ve walked this path.
Query 1: Is a background in theology or philosophy required to learn from “augustine daily”?
No prerequisite exists. Augustine himself started as a seeker, not a scholar. Strategy his works with an open thoughts and a willingness to grapple with difficult concepts. Like a traveler setting out on an extended journey, one want solely take step one, trusting that the trail will step by step reveal itself.
Query 2: How a lot time ought to be dedicated to “augustine daily”?
The period of time is much less vital than the consistency. Even fifteen minutes of targeted studying and reflection can show transformative. Contemplate the picture of a gentle drip of water carrying away stone: small efforts, persistently utilized, yield important outcomes over time.
Query 3: What’s the greatest translation of Augustine’s works to make use of for “augustine daily”?
A number of dependable translations exist. Seek the advice of with trusted students or clergy for suggestions primarily based on one’s most popular model and degree of educational rigor. Like selecting a journey information for a international land, choose one that’s each correct and accessible.
Query 4: How can one overcome the preliminary feeling of being overwhelmed by Augustine’s advanced arguments?
Break down his works into smaller, manageable sections. Give attention to understanding the central concepts of every passage earlier than shifting on. Much like climbing a mountain, concentrate on reaching the following landmark, quite than being daunted by the summit within the distance.
Query 5: What if one disagrees with a few of Augustine’s views?
Disagreement will not be solely acceptable however inspired. Partaking critically with Augustine’s thought can deepen one’s understanding of each his concepts and one’s personal beliefs. Like a talented debater, problem his arguments, take a look at his logic, and refine one’s personal place within the course of.
Query 6: How can one apply Augustine’s teachings to every day life in a sensible manner?
Replicate on how his concepts relate to at least one’s personal experiences, relationships, and challenges. Contemplate how his insights would possibly inform one’s selections and actions. Like a carpenter utilizing a plumb line to make sure a wall is straight, apply Augustine’s rules to make sure that one’s life is aligned with fact and advantage.
These are only a few of the questions that usually come up when embarking on the journey of “augustine daily.” Do not forget that the method is ongoing, a steady exploration of profound concepts and timeless knowledge. Persistence, perseverance, and a willingness to interact with Augustine’s thought will finally result in a richer understanding of self, religion, and the human situation.
The subsequent article explores particular assets which will improve an method to Augustines works.
Navigating Augustine
A constant and measured method to Augustine’s writings calls for each self-discipline and discernment. Deal with the endeavor as an archeological dig, slowly unearthing the layers of that means buried inside every textual content. The following pointers present steering for a rewarding exploration.
Tip 1: Set up a Sacred Time
Carve out a particular time every day, free from distractions, for Augustine. Early morning, earlier than the world intrudes, typically proves fruitful. Think about a monk retreating to a cell, silencing the clamor of the monastery to commune with the divine. The act of setting apart a devoted house and time indicators a dedication to the apply.
Tip 2: Learn Actively, Not Passively
Interact with the textual content as a companion in dialog. Underline key passages, jot down questions, and wrestle with difficult concepts. Don’t merely soak up the phrases however actively search to know their that means. Visualize a sculptor fastidiously analyzing a block of marble, looking for the traces that can reveal the hidden kind inside.
Tip 3: Begin Small, Construct Steadily
Keep away from the temptation to devour whole treatises in a single sitting. Start with quick passages and step by step improve the size as comprehension deepens. Consider a long-distance runner: the primary steps are sluggish and deliberate, constructing momentum over time. Persistence and persistence are very important.
Tip 4: Join with a Neighborhood
Talk about Augustine’s concepts with others who share the same curiosity. Be a part of a studying group, attend lectures, or interact in on-line boards. The change of views can illuminate elements of his thought that may in any other case stay hidden. Image vacationers sharing tales round a campfire, every contributing to a richer understanding of the panorama.
Tip 5: Pray and Replicate
Enable Augustine’s phrases to penetrate the guts, inspiring prayer and contemplation. Replicate on how his teachings apply to at least one’s personal life and struggles. Think about a seed planted in fertile soil: it requires each daylight and water to germinate and develop. Equally, Augustine’s concepts require each mental understanding and non secular nourishment.
Tip 6: Embrace Discomfort
Augustine’s writings typically problem typical knowledge and provoke discomfort. Don’t draw back from these moments however, quite, embrace them as alternatives for progress. Visualize a blacksmith forging metal, subjecting it to intense warmth and strain to refine its power and sturdiness.
Tip 7: Domesticate Humility
Strategy Augustine’s works with a way of humility, acknowledging the constraints of 1’s personal understanding. Be open to the potential of being unsuitable, and prepared to be taught from a grasp of thought. Consider a scholar approaching a sensible trainer, keen to soak up information and perception.
The following pointers, persistently utilized, can remodel the endeavor of studying Augustine from a mere tutorial train right into a life-changing journey. His knowledge serves as a information.
Following, the article will culminate in reflection on the enduring nature of Augustine’s legacy, and name the reader to motion.
A Lasting Echo
The previous exploration of “augustine daily” has illuminated the potential for profound private and mental progress. From the depths of non secular autobiography to the heights of theological inquiry, the constant research of Augustine’s writings presents a transformative path. The journey will not be with out its challenges. It calls for endurance, diligence, and a willingness to grapple with advanced concepts. But, the rewards are immeasurable: a deeper understanding of self, a richer reference to religion, and a extra significant engagement with the world.
Contemplate the story of a lone scholar, burdened by doubt and disillusionment. Pushed by a determined thirst for fact, this scholar started to immerse themself within the works of Augustine. Daily, they wrestled together with his concepts, challenged his assumptions, and slowly, painstakingly, started to see the world anew. The doubts didn’t vanish solely, however they had been tempered by a newfound sense of hope and function. This small story echoes what can occur. The legacy of Augustine continues to resonate, inviting people to embark on their very own journeys of self-discovery and transformative religion, someday at a time.
