Saint Augustine is featured in the East Façade of the Basilica. Augustine’s mother, Monica, also prayed unyieldingly for his redemption, and in 387, her prayers were answered. This integrity had a particular impression on Augustine and was instrumental in his conversion. In contrast with his contemporaries, Ambrose was an orator with a commitment to truth, and did not indulge in subterfuge and flattery to acquire influence. It was there he met the bishop Saint Ambrose, who was a convincing orator with a formidable command of rhetoric. However, dissatisfied with the city, he moved to Milan in a year’s time. A highly intelligent scholar who had received the finest education, he founded a school of rhetoric in Rome in 383.

Despite being raised by a devoted Christian mother, he was a difficult child, and grew to be an atheist. Saint Augustine was born in northern Africa in 354. On August 28, we celebrate the feast day of this seminal thinker and teacher, whose impact on Christian theology and Western philosophy is unparalleled.

“You have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” – Saint AugustineĪs students begin a new school year, we would like to honor the impact of Saint Augustine, a true scholar dedicated to rational theological study. Review the events of historic significance that have taken place at the Basilica.Stay up-to-date on what’s happening at the Basilica throughout the year.Gain insight into the Basilica through interviews, introductions, videos, and more.View the Basilica’s hours of operation, parking and accessibility information.

Take a tour to learn more about the Basilica’s history, architecture, sacred art, and more.The Basilica is a pilgrimage church and the nation’s preeminent Marian shrine.

The Basilica is open 365 days a year and hosts nearly one million visitors annually.

Explore the unique architecture and sacred art of the largest Roman Catholic church in North America.

Discover the rich history of America’s Catholic Church - A Century in the Making.

Be transformed through the power and beauty of music in the Roman Catholic Liturgy.

Encounter Christ and His Mother through Sacred Liturgy, Sacrament, and Devotion at Mary’s Shrine.

Welcome to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, America’s Catholic Church.

St augustine of hippo autobiography