SAINT AUGUSTINE

Saint Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD) was one of the most influential theologians and philosophers in Christian history. He was a bishop, writer, and doctor of the Church whose ideas shaped Western Christianity and philosophy.

Early Life

Augustine was born in Thagaste (in modern-day Algeria) to a pagan father, Patricius, and a devout Christian mother, Saint Monica. He was highly intelligent and studied rhetoric in Carthage, but lived a hedonistic lifestyle and rejected Christianity in his youth, embracing Manichaeism, a dualistic religion.

Conversion

After years of spiritual searching and philosophical study, Augustine was deeply influenced by Neoplatonism and the preaching of Saint Ambrose of Milan. At age 31, he underwent a dramatic conversion to Christianity. His famous description of this experience is found in his Confessions, where he recalls hearing a childlike voice saying “Take and read,” leading him to a passage in the Bible that compelled him to fully commit to Christ.

Career and Writings

Augustine became bishop of Hippo in North Africa and served for over 30 years. His writings laid the foundation for much of medieval and modern Christian theology. Key works include:

• Confessions – his spiritual autobiography and one of the first of its kind
• The City of God – a monumental defense of Christianity against pagan criticism after the fall of Rome
• On Christian Doctrine – a guide for interpreting Scripture
• On the Trinity – a profound exploration of the Christian understanding of God

He emphasized the doctrine of grace, the importance of the Church, and the reality of original sin.

Legacy

Augustine is considered a Doctor of the Church and the patron saint of theologians, printers, and brewers. 

He died in 430 AD, during the siege of Hippo by the Vandals, with his city in flames but his faith unshaken.

16”x 20” acrylic on wood. By Stephen Hotchkiss. If unavailable please enquire about having a similar painting made.