Augustinian Hospitality

More than a year ago my busy college self had to start really thinking about what life after graduation would hold. I knew I wanted to do a year of service but after reading through the numerous brochures I struggled deciding what was right for me. I had heard about the Augustinian Volunteers through friends and was immediately drawn to the program after learning about its intimate community life and spiritual involvement. At this point I had to be selfish and really think about what the Augustinian Volunteers had to offer me while at the same time recognizing what I could offer in return. 

After re-introducing myself to the Augustinian order I quickly became sold on the idea of living together in a way to become closer to God. The way of life those in the order live is admirable and I knew I wanted to volunteer and live in their likeliness. The Augustinian website read, and still does, “live together in harmony being of one mind and one heart on the way to God”. The Augustinian volunteers fully encompass this and I knew I found what God had in store for me after graduation. 

Now three months into my service I could not be happier with my decision. Not only do I wake up every morning excited to serve at my work site, I wake up with a rewarding feeling of belonging. I am now part of the Augustinian family and have already been impacted greatly from my community and the great new people I continue to meet. The Augustinian community here in San Diego is overwhelmingly hospitable and friendly. It is hard to put into words the gratitude I have for all the priests and deacons we have had the pleasure of meeting. Their willingness to quickly accept us into their lives is something beautiful. Every Tuesday night my community members and I are invited to the monastery at St. Augustine’s High School to have dinner with the priests. This Tuesday night ritual has quickly become one of my favorite experiences. The food is amazing but it’s the conversation and company that really makes these nights special. They have really made me feel home here in San Diego and are always helping us get involved in different activities along with providing us great insight into their Augustinian way of life. 

The Augustinians have really impacted my spiritual life as well. We were lucky enough to spend one of our community prayer nights at the monastery receiving reconciliation. Their eagerness to help us in any way they can while leading through example is really wonderful. Spending time at the monastery is a weekly reminder for me to slow down and remember the greater community that I am now part of. I have quickly come to enjoy the recognition of being an Augustinian volunteer, I am proud to tell people about my service, the Augustinian community and how they are positively impacting my life. 

Megan Coughlin

San Diego, CA 2011-2012