The Augustinian Friars in Britain

Our Hearts are Restless until they Rest in You, Lord

Meeting of European Students in Initial Formation - Milan 19-21 February 2010

The Tradition we belong to – the History we become:

Present were 3 from Malta, 1 from Ireland, 2 from Italy, 4 from Spain, 1 from Bohemia and Barnaby from England/Scotland.  They were joined by the Prior General, Luciano de Michele, Wim Sleddens, Miguel de la Lastra.   

Br. Barney Johns OSA reports:

This gathering was an opportunity for the European students to acknowledge the common elements within the different expressions of Augustinian life in Europe. The objective was to strengthen the bonds of Augustinian friendship and vision and to create a sense of solidarity amongst ourselves within the increasing secular climate of Europe.

With a mix of pilgrimage, prayer, reflection and socializing the 12 (out of 21 European students) of us set out to in search of our Augustinian heritage. 

We toured the impressive gothic Duomo in Milan, before heading down to the Paleo-Christian Baptistery, where St. Ambrose baptised Augustine. After a time of prayer we renewed our baptismal vows around the octagonal font, and asked for the intercession of St. Augustine in our discernment and our vocation. Once outside I attempted to buy a miniature model of the Duomo but with no luck. Apparently, since Prime Minister Berlusconi’s recent altercation with one of the heavier metal models, every tourist shop has been sold out.

After a visit to the tomb of St Ambrose we headed out of Milan to Cassago Brianza, which is believed to be where Augustine spent many months with Monica, Adeodatus and friends following his dramatic conversion. We had a pleasant lunch and were then given a very very in-depth tour of the remains of the antique village. Not everyone in our group perhaps always matched the enthusiasm of our guides, nevertheless, we came away with the certainty of the archaeological importance of the remains even if doubt remains as to whether this really was the site where Augustine composed his Dialogues.

But the weekend did not just revolve around our heritage. Conversation often gravitated towards the issues that face us as we head for solemn vows. Clearly what was most evident was how few we are even with those not present, and the connotations of this in terms of ministry and the meeting the needs of the Church.  However I would say that this was mixed with an enthusiasm for the future, but an enthusiasm that came face to face with the reality about the future of our various ministries, the challenges that face our provinces and the difficult decisions that must be made as the Church. Where will the new birth come from? What will the Augustinians be doing in 50 years time? What will the landscape of religious life be like?  So these questions are being asked and must necessitate a determined and courageous discussion and resolute decision-making. There are some real concerns facing fledgling friars.

Following the Ambrosian Rite, the weekend was the beginning of Lent in Milan so once again we celebrated carnevale and once again we had the ashes administered. On the Sunday morning we headed to Pavia to celebrate Mass at the tomb of St. Augustine. I was struck by the extraordinary beauty of his tomb. The melted marble sculptures taken from scenes of the Gospels and the life of the our Holy Father strongly resonated with those of us on the threshold of stepping into a religious life founded on Augustine’s towering spiritual vision of Christ.

Br Barnaby Johns OSA