Saint Augustine & Early Christianity in the Roman Empire

Saint Augustine of Hippo

Early Life and Conversion

August 28th - Memory of Augustine, Bishop and eminent Doctor of the Church

Saint Augustine of Hippo, after a youth concerned with doctrinal issues and moral freedom, converted to Catholicism and was baptized by Saint Ambrose of Milan. Upon returning home, he joined some friends and adopted an ascetic life dedicated to the study of the Scriptures. Later chosen as Bishop of Hippo in Africa, he served as a model for his flock. He instructed them with abundant sermons and writings, bravely fought against the errors of his time, and illuminated the true faith with wisdom.

The Roman Empire and the Rise of Christianity

The Era of the Roman Empire

• Constantine's Reign: Constantine served as governor of the western provinces of the empire, while Licinius governed the east. Constantine later defeated Licinius to become the sole ruler of the empire.
• Division of the Empire: Theodosius divided the empire into two parts.
• Great Migrations and the Fall of the Western Roman Empire: The 4th century saw the beginning of the migration of Eastern peoples to the West, initiating the settlement of Germanic tribes within the empire.

The Problem of Heresy

Heresy posed a grave danger to the early Church. Heresies, which were misinterpretations of Christian doctrine, questioned aspects of the figure and personality of Christ, dividing and confronting the Christian community.

From Persecuted Church to Official Church

From Persecuted to Tolerated

By around the year 300, Christianity had spread throughout the most populated areas of the empire. After winning the Battle of Milvian Bridge, Constantine attributed his victory to divine help. In 313, he issued the Edict of Milan, granting freedom of worship to all Roman citizens.

From Tolerated to Official

In 380, Theodosius, through the Edict of Thessalonica, declared Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. The Church became protected by the laws of the emperor and significantly influenced social and political life.

The New State of the Church

Christianity became deeply embedded in the structures of society:

• The calendar adopted a Christian framework.
• Laws contrary to Christian morality were amended. The death penalty by crucifixion was prohibited, and the conditions for slaves were liberalized.
• The Church began to utilize public buildings, and basilicas were constructed.

However, this newfound power presented challenges, including the potential for political influence, a lack of freedom, and the possible abandonment of evangelical ideals.