Saint Augustine of Hippo

**"S. Augustini Episcopi Confessoris Ecclesiae Doctoris"** refers to **Saint Augustine of Hippo**, who is recognized as a **bishop, confessor, and doctor of the Church**.

- **Saint Augustine of Hippo**: He was a prominent theologian and philosopher in the early Christian Church. He is best known for his works such as "Confessions" and "The City of God."

- **Episcopi**: This Latin term means "bishop."

- **Confessoris**: This term refers to someone who has confessed their faith, often enduring persecution but not to the point of martyrdom.

- **Ecclesiae Doctoris**: This means "Doctor of the Church," a title given to saints recognized for their significant contributions to theology and doctrine.

**Saint Augustine of Hippo** was a prominent theologian, philosopher, and bishop in the early Christian Church. Here are some key points about his life and contributions:

- **Birth and Early Life**: Augustine was born on **November 13, 354**, in **Thagaste, Numidia** (modern-day Souk Ahras, Algeria). His full name was **Aurelius Augustinus**¹².

- **Conversion to Christianity**: Augustine's early life was marked by a search for truth and meaning. He studied various philosophies and religions before converting to Christianity in **386 AD**. His conversion was influenced by the prayers of his mother, **Saint Monica**, and the preaching of **Saint Ambrose**.

- **Priesthood and Bishopric**: After his conversion, Augustine was ordained a priest in **391 AD** and later became the bishop of **Hippo Regius** (modern-day Annaba, Algeria) in **396 AD**. He served as bishop until his death.

- **Major Works**: Augustine is best known for his written works, which have had a profound impact on Christian theology and Western philosophy. Some of his most significant works include:

- **"Confessions"**: An autobiographical work that details his spiritual journey and conversion to Christianity.

- **"The City of God"**: A theological and philosophical treatise that addresses the relationship between Christianity and secular society.

- **"On Christian Doctrine"**: A guide to interpreting and teaching the Scriptures.

- **Theological Contributions**: Augustine's writings helped shape the development of Western Christianity. He addressed various theological issues, including the nature of God, the problem of evil, and the concept of original sin. His ideas on grace and free will have been particularly influential.

- **Legacy**: Augustine is recognized as a **Doctor of the Church** for his significant contributions to theology and doctrine. His feast day is celebrated on **August 28th**

- **Death**: Augustine died on **August 28, 430**, in Hippo Regius during the siege of the city by the Vandals.

Saint Augustine's life and works continue to be studied and revered by Christians and scholars around the world.

¹: [Wikipedia](^1^)
²: [Britannica](^2^)
³: [The Augustinians](^3^)
⁴: [New World Encyclopedia](^4^)
(1) Augustine of Hippo - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augustine_of_Hippo.

(2) Saint Augustine | Biography, Philosophy, Major Works, & Facts. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Augustine.

(3) Saint Augustine of Hippo | What You Need to Know - The Augustinians. https://augustinian.org/spirituality/saint-augustine-of-hippo/.

(4) Augustine of Hippo - New World Encyclopedia. https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Augustine_of_Hippo.

(5) Augustine of Hippo - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augustine_of_Hippo.

(6) Saint Augustine | Biography, Philosophy, Major Works, & Facts. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Augustine.

(7) Saint Augustine of Hippo | What You Need to Know - The Augustinians. https://augustinian.org/spirituality/saint-augustine-of-hippo/.

(8) Augustine of Hippo - New World Encyclopedia. https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Augustine_of_Hippo.