The Way of Augustine: Leo’s dilemma

Werner G. Jeanrond
25 July 2025, The Tablet

St Augustine, as depicted by Botticelli on a fresco in the Church of San Salvatore, Florence

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Will Leo reflect the suspicion of women (and sexuality) harboured by Augustine?

The election in May of a pope from the Augustinian tradition invites reflections on how this might influence his pontificate. Leo XIV is the first pope for some time who belongs to a monastic religious community. His years in the Augustinian order will have taught him the benefits and challenges of a community approach to Christian prayer, worship and shared life.

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