Augustinians of North America Gather During Convocation

The Augustinians of North America gathered for convocation on June 9-12, the first time that all three Provinces gathered in such a way since 2018. We call ourselves FANA: the Federation of Augustinians of North America. It was a wonderful opportunity to be together, to share our excitement over our brother Pope Leo, and to reconnect in fraternity, prayer, and discernment. It was a time to remember who we are, where we’re called to be, how we’re called to live, and how we can best collaborate with one another.  

 

During our discussions, we adopted the synodal method that both Pope Francis and our brother Pope Leo have encouraged. It’s a way to make sure that everyone gets a chance to be heard. Everyone gets a chance to make a contribution. People who wouldn’t normally speak do so, and people who would speak too much have to be quiet. Everyone listens more than they speak. When you do that for a full week, it’s amazing the wisdom you can collect.

 

Among the many important topics for prayer, discernment and discussion were: vocations, formation, our community life, lay collaboration, and ministerial commitments. We spent time appreciating and learning from our past, offering gratitude for our present opportunities and asking for wisdom and guidance as we step into a bright future together with God’s grace. 

 

Thank you to the trained facilitators from the Center for Church Management at the Villanova School of Business who steered us through this process. Their guidance ensured that we spent constructive time listening to one another, to other perspectives and other points of view, and ultimately to the Holy Spirit as to where God is calling us in this joyful, exciting, and opportune moment in the life of the Order. 

 

My brothers and I were hope-filled, prayerful, and enthusiastic during this special week. More than just meetings, we had Masses together and meals together. It was wonderful to spend time with my fellow Priors Provincial: Fr. Barnaby (Barney) Johns, O.S.A., of the Province of St. Augustine in California, and Fr. Anthony (Tony) Pizzo, O.S.A., of the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel in the Midwest. They’re very easy to work with, and I’m grateful for our good spirit of camaraderie that is open to seeing the many creative ways that we can work together. 

 

Weeks like this are a reminder of why community is so important to the Augustinians, as it is with each other that we strive to grow through the gift of God’s grace. I am grateful for all of my brothers, near and far, and I am so glad to have had the opportunity to spend this week together.