MAN BEHIND THE SAINT - THE EARLY YEARS

In the latest installment of the podcast series "Augustine: The Man Behind the Saint," Faith Max explores the early life and conversion of St. Augustine as chronicled by his contemporary, Bishop Possidius of Calama. This episode moves beyond Augustine’s own famous Confessions to examine his journey through the lens of a close friend and colleague.

The discussion begins with the preface to the Vita (Life of Augustine), where Bishop Possidius outlines his motivations:

• A Divine Duty: Possidius views documenting Augustine’s life as a service to the Divine Trinity and the Catholic Church.

• Firsthand Account: He aims to share the character and holiness he personally witnessed in Augustine.

• Augustine’s Humility: Augustine never sought personal credit for his conversion, viewing his deliverance and baptism solely as gifts from God.

• Honoring God: The preface concludes by noting that while it is good to "hide the secret of a king," it is honorable to "reveal and confess the works of God".

Community and Upcoming Offerings

We also want to highlight several initiatives available through the Sanctifying Grace website:

• Tolle Lege Perspectives: Our book club exploring the works of Pope Leo from diverse intergenerational, ecumenical, and cultural viewpoints.

• Made for More: A new series exploring the human distinction of being made in God’s image.

• Ready Set Gospel: Father Max’s almost famous Friday reflections to help listeners prepare for the Sunday Gospel reading!