Fraternidades Seculares Agustinas

The Augustinian Secular Fraternities represent a vital and long-standing tradition within the Order, offering lay men and women the opportunity to follow Christ through the lens of Augustinian spirituality while remaining in their secular state. As one of the three core branches of the Order—alongside the friars and contemplative nuns—these fraternities are an essential expression of our "apostolic brotherhood". (Const. 45-46)

A Foundation of Communion
The identity of the Secular Fraternities is rooted in the ecclesiology of communion, which recognizes that all Christians share the same dignity through their baptismal vocation. We believe that the religious and the laity are called to live in communion within the "common house of the People of God," sharing a co-responsibility for the Church’s mission to the world.

The purpose of these fraternities is to foster a "union of hearts" and to provide a concrete way for the laity to be actively present in the Church. By living out Augustinian values, members contribute to the "building up of the city of God in the world".

The Mission of the Secular Branch
Members of the Secular Fraternities endeavor to be faithful to their Christian vocation by integrating Augustinian principles into their daily lives. This involves:

 

• Spiritual Unity: Striving to be of "one mind and one heart intent upon God" within their own social and family circles.

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• Apostolic Activity: Exercising an apostolic presence in society that is uniquely suited to the lay state.

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• Service to the Body of Christ: Working harmoniously with the wider Augustinian family for the "building up of the body of Christ".

Formation and Growth
To effectively witness to the Gospel, members must receive a solid theological, ethical, and social formation. This preparation is deepened through a shared experience in Augustinian spirituality and an adequate knowledge of the Order’s traditions and teachings. The Order is committed to providing this instruction, ensuring that the laity can effectively participate in the programs and projects that the Order promotes.

Canonical Identity and Governance
The Secular Fraternities are not merely informal groups; they have a distinct juridical status within the Church and the Order.

 

• Establishment: Only the Prior General has the right to legitimately establish a Secular Fraternity through a formal decree.

 

• Requirements: A new fraternity requires a written petition from a Major Superior, the consent of the local Ordinary (if no Augustinian house is present in the diocese), and the final approval of the Prior General.

 

• Statutes: Each fraternity is governed by its own particular statutes, which are approved by the Prior General and confirmed by the Holy See.

As part of the wider Augustinian family, members of these fraternities share in all the spiritual benefits and graces of the Order. They stand as a "prophetic sign," demonstrating that the call to follow Christ and build a community based on love and interiority is open to all.