Embracing Community: The Augustinian Way of Life
James Schloegel recently took his vows as an Augustinian friar in a Chicago church, surrounded by loved ones and fellow friars. At 32, he had spent years discerning his calling to religious life, ultimately declaring his intention to follow Jesus Christ more closely and give a fuller expression of his baptismal consecration. Schloegel is part of a noticeable increase in interest in the Augustinian order, which has fewer than 3,000 friars worldwide. The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pontiff and an Augustinian, has contributed to this trend.
Before entering the discernment process, Schloegel led a typical life for someone his age, but he felt a deep yearning for something more meaningful. The discipline and vows of religious life, including poverty, chastity, and obedience, appealed to him as ways to open himself up to Christ and serve others. Schloegel engaged in the discernment process with others exploring a similar call, praying together and studying the teachings of Saint Augustine.
Father Philip Yang, the vocations director for the Augustinians in the western United States, has seen a significant increase in interest in joining the order since Pope Leo's election. He attributes this rise not only to the papal spotlight but also to the Augustinians' emphasis on community living. The intentional community aspect of the Augustinian order, where friars come together to share meals, pray, and build friendships, sets it apart from other religious orders.
For Saint Augustine, friendship was a crucial aspect of holiness, and the Augustinians prioritize spiritual unity and deep relationships among members. The goal is to love more deeply and grow closer to God through community living. The inward journey of self-discovery as a path to knowing God is a central theme in Augustine's writings, guiding the Augustinian way of life.
The Augustinian community is not just about living together but about supporting each other on the spiritual journey. Schloegel, who initially felt anxious at the start of his novitiate, has found transformation and growth through living in community with other Augustinians. The challenges and interactions within the community have shaped him, leading to personal refinement and growth in faith.
In conclusion, the Augustinian order's emphasis on community living, spiritual unity, and deep friendships has attracted individuals like James Schloegel seeking a deeper connection to their faith and a path to holiness. The increase in interest in joining the Augustinians reflects a desire for meaningful relationships and a shared journey toward knowing God more deeply.