We celebrate St. Augustine, one of the most important figures in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, on Aug. 28. Born in what is now Algeria in 354, St. Augustine’s teachings were the foundation of Christian doctrine for a millennium. He is one of three dozen “Doctors of the Church,” a title for saints recognized as having made a significant contribution to theology or doctrine through their research, study or writing. The story of St. Augustine’s life and his conversion is written in his autobiographical “Confessions.” It is also a compelling philosophical, poetic and literary work. Read it along with commentary from Dr. Paul Thigpen in the free TAN Direction podcast, “The Commentaries: The Confessions of St. Augustine” at www.tandirection.com/podcasts.
Already familiar with St. Augustine? Why not branch out to other Doctors of the Church! Get an in-depth look at the most influential thinkers in the Catholic Church in TAN Books’ “The 35 Doctors of the Church” or check out podcasts on two of the four women Doctors of the Church available at www.tandirection.com/podcasts. Find two series on the works of St. Teresa of Avila by Father Timothy Reid of the Diocese of Charlotte and another on St. Catherine of Siena by Dominican Sister Mary Madeline Todd.