Tuesday, August 28, 2007

St. Augustine


St. Augustine in his Study (1502-8)
by Vittore Carpaccio


One of the most profound reflections by St. Augustine found in his Confessions was this quote. I had begun reading these some months ago, then had to set it aside because I could not read it at lunch time any longer. It's time to dig it out. This particular work is something I highly recommend, especially if you have drifted and wandered in your faith in any way. Augustine shows us how to find our way back to God because chances are, he's been there; done that, with some exceptions. He exemplifies the humility needed by a soul before Our Lord, and conveys an understanding of God's mercy.



Late have I loved you, O Beauty ever ancient, ever new, late have I loved you! You were within me,but I was outside, and it was there that I searched for you. In my unloveliness I plunged into the lovely things which you created. You were with me, but I was not with you. Created things kept me from you; yet if they had not been in you they would have not been at all. You called, you shouted, and you broke through my deafness. You flashed, you shone, and you dispelled my blindness. You breathed your fragrance on me; I drew in breath and now I pant for you. I have tasted you, now I hunger and thirst for more. You touched me, and I burned for your peace.




This is also a good time to remind you that Leonardo Defilippis is coming back to the metro Detroit area to put on a one-man performance on St. Augustine in several locations. I'll bring you an updated list when I get an opportunity. Click here for my original post.

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