Augustinian

Augustinian refers to Saint Augustine of Hippo (c. 354–430), a North African bishop and one of the most influential early Christian theologians and philosophers. His writings, especially Confessions and City of God, address topics such as the nature of God, the problem of evil, time and memory, and human salvation. He articulated the doctrine of original sin and argued that divine grace is essential for salvation, offering a framework for understanding the relationship between grace and free will. Augustine also developed ideas about the unity of the Trinity, the nature of the church, and the twofold cities—City of God and City of Man—that stand in tension throughout history. His interpretations of Scripture and his synthesis of Christian faith with classical philosophy shaped Western medieval theology and later Christian thought, influencing Catholic, Protestant, and Anglican traditions.

The term Augustinian can also refer to followers of Augustinian theology or to religious communities that trace their Rule to Augustine. In the Catholic Church, Augustinians include two main branches: the mendicant Order of Saint Augustine (OSAs), founded in the 13th century, and the Augustinian Canons Regular, or Augustinian Canons, who live a community life according to the Augustinian Rule. These communities have engaged in preaching, teaching, scholarship, and charitable works across Europe and beyond. The Augustinian heritage continues in academic institutions, monasteries, and churches that emphasize inquiry, contemplative life, and service.