CANONICAL LIFE OF THE AUGUSTINES OF MERCY
The Augustinians of the Mercy of Jesus follow the Rule of St Augustine (354-430) lived out in the stability of a Monastery (Constitutions No. 3). Their mission is to serve the poor and the sick, witness to the Father's tenderness and mercy for their brothers and sisters.
Their charism is expressed in the canonical life, founded on:
- Liturgical and personal prayer
- Sharing everything in community
- Serving the poor and the sick through works of mercy.
Traditionally the sisters have a strong devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Liturgical and personal prayer
An Augustinian Sister’s Canonical Life has at its heart a Contemplative Attitude which finds its source and summit in the celebration of the Eucharist, the Mystery of Salvation. The Eucharistic celebration is prepared for and prolonged by the Liturgy of the Hours. Silence, constant conversion of heart, Lectio Divina, personal prayer and times of retreat foster this fundamental disposition to prayer.
"The Holy Spirit teaches us to gather up all the expectations, the cries of
joy and suffering of humanity to present them before the Father of Mercies”
(Constitutions
n°53)
Fraternal Relation-ships
Today as yesterday, Christ gathers the Augustinians together to be witnesses of his Contemplation and Mercy.
"Before all else, live together in harmony being of one mind and one heart turned towards God. For is it not precisely for this reason that you have come to live together? "
(Rule Ch. I,2)
"The humility and gentleness learned from the Lord Jesus, by placing us in Truth before God and others, will enable
us to impregnate our whole life in community with peace in his Love." (Constitutions n°91)
Service of the poor and the sick
The vow o service through Mercy, originally the only vow taken by the Augustinians of the Mercy of Jesus, has been a constant tradition in the Order. It is rooted in a desire to follow Christ “who went everywhere doing good” by alleviating all kinds of suffering. Following Jesus’ example the Sisters are “neighbour” to everyone they meet and all who come to them; thus becoming by God’s Grace merciful human beings.
"We have to make this face of Mercy real to help others discover that God loves them
and that they have been created for Him."
(Constitutions n°114)