Saint Augustine of Canterbury

A life of faith

Augustine was a monk from Italy chosen by Gregory of Rome to lead a mission to Britain. The companions arrived in Kent in 597 and received protection from King Ethelbert, whose wife Bertha was already Christian. Canterbury became the center of their work, and the king later received baptism. Augustine established churches, a monastery, and a school, while helping form new dioceses at Rochester and London. His attempts to cooperate with existing British Christian communities were less successful. The OCA life acknowledges those difficulties, allowing his missionary achievements to be remembered alongside the limits of his approach.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Begin a shared task with respect for the people already present. Offer clear teaching, but listen carefully when another community’s history differs from your expectations.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.