Pope St. Gregory the Great sent St. Augustine, a monk of the Benedictine monastery of St. Andrew in Rome, with 39 of his brothers to England. On reaching England, St. Augustine was greeted by King Ethelbert of Kent, a pagan, who had married a Christian, Bertha.
Not long after, in 597, St. Augustine baptised King Ethelbert together with many of his subjects. After being consecrated Bishop in Gaul by the Archbishop of Arles, St. Augustine became the Bishop of Canterbury.
By dint of hard and unremitting labour, this holy missionary in a few short years founded and directed the English hierarchy, thus sowing the seed which was to yield rich harvests of souls for Christ over the centuries.
St. Augustine of Canterbury died on May 27, 604 or 605. The month and day of his death is certain but the year in history is either 604 or 605.
There is greatness in every person. Make the best of your capabilities and who knows, you might be the one writing history. May St. Augustine of Canterbury help us to do our best the right way.
St. Augustine, pray for us.
Happy feast day to all Augustine.
Compiled by Elvira Kudiabor
