The Augustinian and Franciscan Traditions

A Shared Spiritual Vision

The Rule of St. Augustine, written around 400 A.D., remains the oldest monastic rule still in use. Grounded in the spirit of the early Christian communities (Acts 4:32-35), it emphasizes communal living, mutual charity, and unity of heart and mind. When the Order of Saint Augustine was officially founded in 1244 under Pope Innocent IV, it adopted Augustine’s teachings as the foundation for its spiritual and communal life.

Over 800 years later, St. Francis of Assisi introduced a new expression of Christian discipleship—one that focused on itinerancy and preaching to the world. While Francis did not adopt Augustine’s Rule, scholars recognize a deep affinity between the two traditions.

Fr. Joe Chinnici, OFM, notes that both spiritual paths emphasize friendship with God and others, teaching by word and example, and the transformative power of caritas —the love of God expressed through Christ. These shared values foster strong horizontal relationships within the community and reflect a profound commitment to unity and peace.

Sr. Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ, further notes that “Franciscan theology is Augustinian in nature,” suggesting that despite differences in mission and lifestyle, both traditions share a common theological and spiritual DNA.

Fr. Joe Chinnici writes, “In a divided and globalized world, the Augustinian and Franciscan traditions continue to offer a message of unity, compassion, and community—a vision as vital today as it was centuries ago.”

Resources

• Rule of St. Augustine
• Augustinian Order
• Fr. Joe Chinnici, email correspondence with Sister Kathleen Moffatt
• Sr. Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ