From Convert to Bishop Augustine realized his energies could be devoted to God Baptized at 33 yrs old Became a priest in his hometown in N. Africa Eventually elected bishop of Hippo

An Answer to Life’s Longing “Our hearts are restless, O Lord, until they rest in you.” Guided by Scriptures, inspired by his love of God

Donatists Christians who had own churches in Africa for over 100 yrs Separated from Catholics because believed that ppl could not be forgiven for denial of faith under threat of persecution/death Bishops who were disloyal could not provide true sacrament

Augustine Counters Donatists Validity of sacrament comes from God. God works through people, who are not perfect Argument does not allow for God’s power and grace

Pelagians Believed that a person could get to heaven without the special inner help of God- grace –Work hard enough, be saved Augustine counters –b/c of original sin, ppl inherited a tendency to sin –God’s grace gives possibility of overcoming

“The City of God” Written in response to the fall of Rome in 410 History understood as struggle between –“city of God”: ppl who place faith in God, live in service and love –“city of Man”: ppl who purse only selfish interests Both realms exist in real world, but only city of God will last forever Gave Christians purpose, validity of what they were doing