Saint Augustine is one of the four Doctors of the Church (with Saints Jerome, Ambrose and Gregory the Great). Born in 354, he was a native of Algeria; his father was pagan but his mother (Saint Monica) was Christian. He lived in Carthage with his common-law wife and son Adeodatus. Around 383 he met Saint Ambrose, and after an inner struggle, recorded in his 'Confessions', dedicated himself to God and was baptised.
He returned to North Africa, formed a monastic community, and became bishop of Hippo. He produced many writings including works on the Trinity and on Grace. The Augustinian Orders continue to keep his rule, and his writings, such as 'The City of God', are still considered major works of theology. The 'Confessions' is one of the most important works of European literature.