Lay Groups

The Order of Saint Augustine is a vibrant community that extends far beyond the walls of its friaries. A significant part of our mission is realized through various lay groups—associations of the faithful who, while remaining in their secular state, seek to live out their Christian commitment through the lens of Augustinian spirituality and devotion.

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Pious Associations and Devotional Groups

A cornerstone of our lay community is the Pious Associations. These are formally recognized organizations that arise from a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary (such as Our Lady of Good Counsel or Our Lady of Consolation) or the Saints of the Order.

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Characteristics of these groups include:

• Devotional Focus: They center their spiritual life on approved practices and traditions that honor the Blessed Mother or Augustinian saints.

• Internal Organization: Each association possesses its own internal structure and governing norms to manage its activities and spiritual life.

• Spiritual Bond: They are united to the Order through an "intimate spiritual bond," sharing in the spiritual graces and benefits of the Augustinian family.

• Apostolic Promotion: Our friars are charged with actively promoting and supporting these groups within their parishes and shrines.

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Educational and Formative Associations

Our mission in the educational apostolate also gives rise to specific lay groups designed to foster a lifelong connection to Augustinian values.

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• Associations for Former Students: Because the total education of a person is never truly completed during school years, the Order promotes associations for alumni. These groups provide a way for former students to maintain contact with the Order and continue their formation in a supportive community.

• Regional Associations of Augustinian Educators: To ensure that our schools remain centers of "amicable harmony," we encourage the formation of associations specifically for educators. These groups allow lay professors and friars to share more profoundly our ideals of education and pedagogy, ensuring a better and more efficacious formation for all students.

 

Groups of the Lay Faithful

In addition to these organized associations, many smaller, informal groups of lay faithful "spring up" around our communities, parishes, and shrines. These individuals:

• Desire to live their Christian commitment more intensely through Augustinian spirituality.

• Are encouraged to participate in the community prayer of the friars, celebrating their faith together as one family.

• Contribute to the "building up of the city of God" through their active presence and co-responsibility in the Church's mission.

 

A Unified Mission

Whether centered on a specific saint or a shared educational goal, all these lay groups are characterized by a desire to be of "one mind and one heart intent upon God." They are essential partners in our work to "teach the truth with love" and to ensure that the knowledge of the world is always illuminated by faith.