Understanding the History, Mission, and Values of One of the Church’s Oldest Religious Orders

The Augustinians, formally known as the Order of Saint Augustine (Ordo Sancti Augustini, O.S.A.), are one of the oldest and most influential religious orders within the Roman Catholic Church. Rooted in the teachings and rule of Saint Augustine of Hippo, the order has a rich tradition of combining contemplative life with active ministry, community living, and intellectual pursuit.

The origins of the Augustinian Order trace back to the 13th century, when Pope Innocent IV and Pope Alexander IV encouraged various groups of hermits and clerics to adopt the Rule of Saint Augustine. In 1256, these groups were formally consolidated into a single order through the Grand Union, establishing the Augustinians as a recognized mendicant community.

Saint Augustine, a bishop and theologian of the early Church, provided the spiritual foundation for the order. His emphasis on interior reflection, communal harmony, and the pursuit of truth continues to shape Augustinian life. Members of the order take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and dedicate themselves to living in unity while seeking God together.

Community life is at the heart of Augustinian spirituality. The friars, brothers, and priests of the order live together in priories and monasteries, sharing their lives and prayers. This model is not only spiritual but also practical, fostering a deep sense of brotherhood and mutual support. Augustinians believe that living in community reflects the early Christian Church described in the Acts of the Apostles.

Education and intellectual engagement are also central to the Augustinian mission. Throughout history, Augustinians have founded and staffed universities, seminaries, and schools. Their intellectual tradition emphasizes theological study, philosophy, and the humanities, aimed at both personal formation and the service of the Church and society.

The order has also been deeply involved in missionary work. From the Americas to Asia and Africa, Augustinians have spread the Gospel, established churches, and contributed to social development. Their work often extends to pastoral care, youth ministry, hospital chaplaincy, and social justice advocacy.

Today, the Order of Saint Augustine includes thousands of members across more than 40 countries. While rooted in tradition, the order continues to evolve. Modern Augustinians engage with contemporary challenges such as secularism, poverty, and environmental justice, always seeking to apply the timeless wisdom of Saint Augustine to the needs of the present.

The symbol of the order—usually a heart pierced by an arrow, resting on a book—represents the restless human heart, longing for God, and the centrality of the Scriptures in Augustinian life. Their motto, “One mind and one heart intent upon God,” reflects their mission to live in unity and service.

In a world often fragmented by individualism and conflict, the Augustinians offer a compelling witness to the power of community, spiritual depth, and shared purpose. As they have for centuries, they continue to illuminate paths of faith, reason, and compassion.