Augustinian Volunteers
Joanna Bowen, Director of the Augustinian Volunteers
Inspired by St. Augustine’s search for a greater understanding of God through self-discovery and communal life, the Augustinian Volunteers celebrate the restless hearts of young adults by inviting them to experience an intentional way of life that honors the dignity of others through three foundational pillars: community, spirituality, and service.
“The Augustinian Volunteer experience centers on relationships, with Augustinian Friars, fellow volunteers, service site partners, program staff, and God,” said Joanna Bowen, Director of the Augustinian Volunteers. “Through service to others, young adults have the opportunity to utilize their skills for the common good, while also learning alongside the communities they encounter.”
2019-2020 Class ofAugustinian Volunteers
Augustinian Volunteers enter the service experience with a spirit of openness, an enthusiasm for building relationships and an excitement to learn and grow. Relationship is a central value of the Augustinian Volunteers; volunteers are in relationship with the Augustinian Friars, fellow volunteers, service site partners, program staff, and God. They serve in well established placements in one of three main areas: Education, Campus Ministry and Social Service.
The program is sponsored by the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, which seeks to be in service to others and God through the sharing of ideals and values as well as through communion of their material and spiritual goods.
Intentional Community is a way of living that promotes the good of the whole community over the good of the individual, and it is the cornerstone of the Augustinian Volunteers. Service to others begins in intentional community as individuals strive to support one another and help each other grow throughout the year. Intentional community requires personal sacrifice but yields personal growth, development, and awareness.
