Showing results by author "Augustine" in All Categories

In his own day the dominant personality of the Western Church, Augustine of Hippo today stands as perhaps the greatest thinker of Christian antiquity, and his Confessions is one of the great works of Western literature. Now modern listeners will have easier access to St. Augustine's deeply personal meditations. Chadwick's lucid translation and helpful introduction clear the way for a new experience of this classic.

The Confessions of St. Augustine is one of the most moving diaries ever recorded of a man's journey to the fountain of God's grace. Writing as a sinner, not a saint, Augustine shares his innermost thoughts and conversion experiences, and wrestles with the spiritual questions that have stirred the hearts of the thoughtful since time began.

In On the Spirit and the Letter, St. Augustine responds to Tribune Marcellinus, who expressed surprise at the claim that man could live sinlessly with divine assistance. Marcellinus questioned how something could be deemed possible if there are no examples to prove it. Augustine passionately defends the concept of grace, illustrating that while the law is good and holy, it alone cannot save us; it often amplifies our guilt when we know our duties but lack the ability to fulfill them. He emphasizes the necessity of the Spirit’s support, which fills our hearts with grace, enabling us to love ...

In this thought-provoking exploration, the doctrine of predestination and divine grace is robustly defended against the semi-Pelagian viewpoint—those who, while not fully embracing Pelagianism, assert that the initiation of salvation and faith originates from human effort. Augustine argues that both the inception and growth of faith are gifts from God. He candidly acknowledges his earlier misconceptions in some of his minor works prior to becoming bishop, highlighting a pivotal shift in his understanding, largely influenced by the phrase, but what have you that you have not received? This ...

In On Grace and Free Will, Augustine delves into the profound debate surrounding the interplay of divine grace and human freedom. He addresses those who assert that affirming Gods grace undermines the liberty of the will, countering their claims that grace is merely a reward for personal merit. Written for the monks of Adrumetum, where this controversy first ignited, Augustines work invites readers to explore the delicate balance between grace and free will, beginning with a compelling examination of those who advocate for human autonomy.

In On Lying, I explore the complex nature of deception and the vital importance of truthfulness. While the ideas presented may initially seem challenging, they offer profound insights that sharpen the mind and enrich moral understanding. This work, which I contemplated leaving unpublished due to its intricate nature, ultimately aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for honesty in our speech and interactions. - Summary by Augustine

In this insightful treatise, we delve into the historical context of the heresy of Jovinian, a monk who challenged established views on marriage and virginity in the early Church. Augustine addresses these controversies head-on, emphasizing the value of marriage while acknowledging the esteemed status of virginity. Written around A.D. 401, this work outlines the essential elements of marriage faithfulness, offspring, and the sacred nature of the union. Augustine’s reflections serve as a guide, balancing the beauty and responsibilities of marriage against the backdrop of early Christian ...

In his work Retractions, St. Augustine reflects on the significance of virginity, stating, After I had written on the Good of Marriage, it was anticipated that I would address the topic of Holy Virginity. I did not hesitate to explore this divine gift—its immense value and the humility required to uphold it—in a single volume. This book begins, and delves into the profound insights he offers.

Immerse yourself in these captivating sermons that explore the profound wisdom of the Psalms attributed to the Holy Prophet and King David. Rich in poetic beauty, these reflections offer inspiration and devotion, making them perfect for uplifting listening. - Summary by The Reader

In response to Pollentiuss inquiry about separation due to adultery, St. Augustine composed the thought-provoking work On Adulterous Marriages. Pollentius argued that a wife could remarry if she left her husband for his infidelity, interpreting St. Pauls teachings as applicable only to those who marry for reasons beyond adultery. St. Augustine counters this view, asserting that the prohibition applies to women who depart for this very cause. Furthermore, Pollentius claimed that believers in a marriage could not abandon their unbelieving partners, while St. Augustine clarifies that, although ...

How She Built It is for women entrepreneurs building scalable businesses. Hosted by Karrie Augustine Boyle, CEO of Automate & Elevate, this podcast unpacks the systems, backend strategy, leadership, and infrastructure behind sustainable growth. If you're scaling and ready to build with intention, you’re in the right room. Success isn’t accidental. It’s built.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Psalms with these profound sermons on the poetic works of the Holy Prophet and King David. Perfect for moments of inspiration and devotion, this final volume completes a six-part series that celebrates the timeless wisdom and artistry found within these sacred texts. - Summary by The Reader

The Enchiridion, also known as the Manual or Handbook of Augustine of Hippo, is captivatingly subtitled Faith, Hope, and Love. This concise treatise on Christian piety was crafted in response to a request from a figure named Laurentis, shortly after the passing of Saint Jerome in 420. Designed as a guide for Christian instruction or catechesis, the work is thoughtfully organized around the three essential graces required for true worship Faith, Hope, and Love. Augustine delves into the Apostles Creed under Faith, illustrating its role in teaching doctrine and countering heresies. He then ...

This collection of sermons covers the Gospel of John in an extraordinary way. Detailing the trinity, the nature of God, the person and divinity of Jesus, and the nature of man, this wealth of information provides an extensive dive into Christian theology. St. Augustine discusses the gravity of living a holy life and the impact it has on one’s relationship with Jesus. He also speaks on the role of the Holy Spirit in providing guidance and comfort and the overwhelming impact of love as the foundation of faith and key to experiencing the nearness of God.

Superbly narrated by Mike Fraser, F. J. Sheed’s remarkable translation of this classic spiritual autobiography is finally in audio format, with an introduction by noted historian of late antiquity Peter Brown. Incorporated in this edition are a wealth of notes on literary, philosophical, biblical, historical, and liturgical topics by Michael P. Foley, an Editor’s Preface, and a timeline.

A story of spiritual awakening, St. Augustine's Confessions is a fascinating look at the life of an eminent Christian thinker. Widely seen as one of the first Western autobiographies ever written, it chronicles the life and religious struggles of Augustine of Hippo, from his days as a self-confessed sinner to his acceptance of Christianity as an older adult.

The City of God is one of the most important works of Christian history and philosophy ever written. The writings of St. Augustine are as intriguing to the casual reader as it is to Christian researchers. St. Augustine's work provides insight into Western thought and the development of Western civilizations. The City of God provides the reader with an artful contrast between earthy cities and those in heaven as a representation of the eternal struggle between good and evil. The City of God was originally penned in the early 5th century as a response to the prevalent belief that Christianity was to blame for the fall of Rome. St. Augustine is known as one of the most influential Fathers of the Catholic Church. Born November 13, 354, Augustine would eventually be recognized as a Saint by the Catholic Church, the Eastern Christian Church, and the Anglican Communion.

Considered by many to be the first autobiography/memoir ever written, Confessions is a retrospective view of a life challenged by uncertainty, doubt, human frailty, and earthly desires. Augustine discovers and cherishes a deeply personal relationship with his God, all while describing the day-to-day dealings of his life in the fading, corrupt days of the Roman Empire.

This collection of sermons covers the Gospel of John in an extraordinary way. Detailing the trinity, the nature of God, the person and divinity of Jesus, and the nature of man, this wealth of information provides an extensive dive into Christian theology. St. Augustine discusses the gravity of living a holy life and the impact it has on one’s relationship with Jesus. He also speaks on the role of the Holy Spirit in providing guidance and comfort and the overwhelming impact of love as the foundation of faith and key to experiencing the nearness of God.

The Confessions, an autobiography by Saint Augustine of Hippo, has become one of the most important texts in Christian literature. It is also considered to be one of the first Western autobiographies ever written. It continues to influence modern society with its striking honesty and timeless Christian themes of faith, identity, and truth. This perennial classic is a collection of 13 books detailing St. Augustine’s journey to self-knowledge and his life as a follower of Christ.