Summary
Interest in the Augustinian religious order is growing after the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pope and the first from this order. The Augustinians emphasize community living and spiritual unity among members.
Key Facts
- Pope Leo XIV is the first North American and first Augustinian pope.
- James Schloegel recently joined the Augustinians in the U.S.
- The Augustinians are a small Roman Catholic religious order with fewer than 3,000 members globally.
- There has been increased interest in joining the Augustinians since Pope Leo's election.
- Father Philip Yang, a vocations director, noted a rise in people exploring the Augustinian order.
- The Augustinians focus on community life, with members sharing meals and prayers regularly.
- The order is inspired by Saint Augustine's teachings on friendship and spiritual unity.