Augustine Thompson Livres

Dominican Brothers: Conversi, Lay, and Cooperator Friars by the noted Dominican author and historian, Fr. Augustine Thompson, O.P., captures the rich and elaborative history of the vocation and ministry of Dominican brothers since the very foundation of the Dominican Order in 1216. Through exhaustive and ground-breaking research, Fr. Thompson has uncovered a legion of little known facts and about the history, vitality, permanence, and presence of the vocation and ministry of the Dominican brother (including saints, blesseds, and martyrs) in promoting Dominican fraternal life and the mission of the Order in service to the Church universal. Thompson's work is not limited to a dry historical review of the past; rather, he brings the richness of the past into the present day so that it will promote vocations to the Dominican brotherhood, whose life and ministry are indispensable in the process of renewing and sustaining the fraternal life and ministry of the Order and the Church: preaching and the salvation of souls. This prophetic document also needs to be studied by other religious orders and read in tandem with the Vatican Document, "Identity and Mission of the Religious Brother in the Church," issued by the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies for Apostolic Life.

When religion is considered, the subjects are usually saints, heretics, theologians, and religious leaders, thereby ignoring the vast majority of those who lived in the communes. Drawing on many ecclesiastical and secular sources, this book aims to give a voice to the majority - orthodox lay people and those who ministered to them.

Focusing on the life of a revered saint in Catholicism, this biography offers an elegant and accessible exploration of his journey and impact. Originally part of a larger work, it delves into the historical context and spiritual significance of the saint’s life, providing insights into his beliefs and the legacy he left behind. The narrative is crafted to engage readers with both the personal and broader implications of his story.

Francis of Assisi (c. 1181-1226) is one of the most cherished saints in Catholicism, known for his commitment to poverty, love for animals and nature, and desire to emulate Christ's teachings. Over time, many stories and anecdotes about him have obscured the true man behind the legend. In this insightful biography, Augustine Thompson, O.P., employs modern historical methods to examine the life of Francis, revealing a nuanced and sympathetic portrait. He presents Francis as a typical thirteenth-century Italian layman who, when confronted with personal crises, made radical choices that challenged societal norms. Unlike the legendary figure who received divine inspiration, this Francis navigated life's unexpected challenges with uncertainty. His devotion to poverty is shown to be more complex and perhaps not his primary spiritual focus. Thompson revisits key events in Francis's life, including his strained relationship with his father, interactions with Clare of Assisi, his encounter with the Muslim sultan, and the Stigmata, to uncover the man behind the myths. This work combines a biographical narrative with a detailed examination of historical sources, offering a fresh perspective on this iconic figure. Thompson hopes that his portrayal will resonate with both believers and non-believers today.