Augustinian Spirituality: Restless Journey

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Questions and Answers

What does Augustine envision as the relationship between prayer and scripture?

Through scripture, God speaks when we pray. (correct)

Prayer and scripture are two separate entities.

Prayer requires a written script.

Only communal prayer is valid.

How does Augustine define true friendship?

A form of love ordained by God through the Holy Spirit. (correct)

A bond strengthened by mutual need.

An alliance formed for power.

A relationship built solely on shared interests.

What aspect of love does Augustine emphasize?

Love for God can exist in isolation.

True love is reflected in love for one's neighbor. (correct)

Love should prioritize individual desires.

Love for oneself is paramount.

Which virtue does Augustine believe is essential for spiritual formation?

Humility Signup and view all the answers

What is the connection between freedom and love in Augustine's philosophy?

Freedom is fulfilled through love. Signup and view all the answers

What does Augustine regard as foundational to Augustinian life?

Community life and service. Signup and view all the answers

According to Augustine, what leads to a genuine search for truth?

A restless and painful pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of humility in Augustine's teachings?

It allows God to reach man and man to reach God. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Caritas' represent in Augustinian spirituality?

The love that unites individuals with God and others Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of 'Unitas' in Augustinian thought?

The union with God and others in the faith community Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the phrase 'Go back to the heart' in Augustine's teachings?

To realize that Christ is present within Signup and view all the answers

Which concept involves the idea of moving upwards in the process of self-discovery?

Interiority Signup and view all the answers

How does Augustine describe the relationship between faith and reason?

They must be balanced in the pursuit of wisdom Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Augustinian values, what does 'Veritas' primarily symbolize?

A restless search for truth and understanding Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'interior teacher' signify in Augustinian spirituality?

Christ's presence within guiding one's moral choices Signup and view all the answers

What principle is emphasized by the phrase 'One mind and one heart intent upon God'?

Unified spiritual effort towards God Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Restlessness and the Journey to God

Restlessness is central to Augustinian spirituality, reflecting the soul's yearning for God.
Acknowledging restlessness is a pathway to draw closer to God.
Augustine emphasizes finding God within oneself rather than externally.
The phrase “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ” signifies the core of Augustine's journey.
Christ acts as the true teacher within each heart, emphasizing personal spirituality.

Augustinian Charism & Values

"In Deum" symbolizes unity among believers striving towards God.
Augustinian values are grounded in collective spiritual growth rather than individual ambition.
The concept of "One mind and one heart intent upon God" promotes spiritual conformity based on Augustine’s teachings.

Key Concepts of Love and Unity

"Caritas" represents a love that connects believers with God and each other, modeled after Christ's love.
"Unitas" embodies partnership and unity within the faith community, fostering connections among individuals.
"Veritas" denotes the relentless pursuit of truth, rooted in the understanding of God as the ultimate source of all truth.

Steps in Spiritual Growth

Interiority: Involves introspection and recognizing God's presence within oneself.
Devotion to Study: Encourages integration of faith and reason, emphasizing the importance of wisdom.
Prayerfulness: Prayer is seen as a dialogue with God, with the Scriptures guiding the believer’s relationship with the divine.

Community and Friendship

Communitarian Spirit: Community life is centered on shared intent towards God, fostering a supportive environment.
Obedience as Compassion: Encourages a heartfelt approach to authority, rooted in mercy.
Friendship: Constituted as divine love binding individuals together, essential for spiritual growth.

Core Values of Augustinian Life

Order of Love: True love for God is recognized through love for others, focusing on caring for the common good.
Humility: Vital for building community, humility counteracts pride, fostering spiritual virtues.
Exercise of Freedom: Freedom should coexist with love; Christian maturity is linked to this freedom.

Service and Truth

Service to others underpins Augustinian life, promoting communal paths directed to God through humility and charity.
Augustine's quest for truth was marked by restlessness until he embraced Scripture as a guiding force.
"Tolle Lege" emphasizes the importance of Scripture as a source of truth and spiritual direction in Augustine’s life.

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Description

Explore the Restless Journey as outlined in Augustinian spirituality through Lesson 1. This quiz delves into the search for God and the significance of restlessness in understanding our spiritual path. Discover how acknowledging our inner yearning brings us closer to God.