The Augustinian Order is a religious order within the Catholic Church that follows the teachings of Saint Augustine. The spelling of "Augustinian" is phonetically transcribed as /ɔːˌɡʌstɪˈniːən/, with stress on the second syllable. The word is derived from the name of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor. The Augustinians are known for their devotion to the Eucharist and commitment to social justice. They have a rich history of service and missionary work, spanning over 750 years.
The Augustinian Order refers to a religious community comprised of men who follow the teachings and spirituality inspired by Saint Augustine of Hippo. It is a Roman Catholic religious order that traces its origins back to the 13th century, specifically to the time of the medieval Church. Named after its founder, Saint Augustine, the order is known for its commitment to a life of prayer, community, and the pursuit of truth and knowledge.
Members of the Augustinian Order, known as Augustinians or Friars, live according to the Rule of Saint Augustine, which emphasizes the importance of living in common and holding all possessions in common as well. The order places a strong emphasis on intellectual pursuits, particularly theology, and many Augustinians are renowned scholars and educators. They dedicate themselves to serving God and His people through various ministries, including pastoral work, education, and social justice initiatives.
The Augustinian Order has numerous monasteries, convents, and priories spread across the world. These communities are led by a Prior Provincial, who serves as the superior overseeing the region. The order maintains a hierarchical structure, with the Prior General as its highest authority. Augustinians often wear a black cassock with a white collar as their religious habit.
Through their commitment to the spirit of Saint Augustine and the charism of their founder, the Augustinians strive to spread the Gospel message of love, reconciliation, and the pursuit of knowledge. They seek to live out their calling as contemplatives in action, engaged in the world while remaining rooted in a deep spiritual life.
The word "Augustinian" is derived from the Latin word "Augustinus", which is the name of St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD), an influential theologian and philosopher of early Christianity. As the founder of the order, the term "Augustinian" is used to refer to St. Augustine and anything related to him. Therefore, the etymology of the term "Augustinian Order" can be traced back to St. Augustine and his teachings, as the order was established to follow his spiritual and philosophical principles.