A Witness for Our Times
St. Augustine of Canterbury, often called the Apostle to the English, was sent by Pope Gregory the Great in 597 to bring the Gospel to the Anglo-Saxon people. At first, Augustine was nervous about the journey and even considered turning back. Yet with prayer and trust in God, he continued—and his mission changed history. King Æthelberht of Kent became a Christian, many were baptized, and Augustine was made the first Archbishop of Canterbury.
What makes Augustine’s story so powerful today is not only his success, but his faithful courage. He stepped into an unknown land, faced uncertainty, and still proclaimed Christ’s love. In our own time, we may not travel across seas, but we are called to share the Gospel in a world that often feels unfamiliar or uncertain.
Like Augustine, we can:
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Take small steps of faith even when we feel afraid.
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Build bridges of friendship and understanding with those around us.
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Show Christ’s love in action, through kindness, service, and prayer.
Augustine’s life reminds us that God works through ordinary people who are willing to trust Him. His courage and faith still inspire us today, encouraging us to live as missionaries in our own communities.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations..." (Matthew 28:19)