Brent Faubert

What drew you to becoming an Augustinian?

My discernment process led me to conclude that, more than anything, I needed to journey towards God with the support of a Community, while also "stretching" myself (my being) by living in and through Community. I believe I discerned well.

How has your faith grown since entering religious life?

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First and foremost, living as an Augustinian (and with the support of my Augustinian brothers) has allowed me to widen and deepen my devotional life by better practicing the presence of God 24/7 through various forms of individual and communal prayer activities. In addition, I have come to better appreciate how service to others is essential to both understand and, crucially, live out the gospel. Finally, I believe I have grown by better developing the disposition for successful living in a religious community. For me, a successful disposition embraces humility, charity, forgiveness, and compassion in one’s encounters with others and even self. 

How important is prayer in your life?

Prayer life, both individually and communally, active (in chapel) and passive (in service work) is an essential part of my day. Prayer is how I spend time getting to know God, developing a trusting relationship with Him, and listening to His message as I continue to discern questions along my vocation journey. It also helps me to maintain a stillness in my mind, heart, and soul – something I need given my tendency towards busy-ness. I believe prayer life is also an opportunity to grow closer to my brothers. Indeed, some of my most profound spiritual moments as an Augustinian have been in communal prayer with my brothers.

What do you do all day as a novice?

Unsurprisingly, much of the day is spent in prayer – prayer in one form or another. My day begins at 4:50 a.m. with a light breakfast and daily grooming to be ready for Office of Readings at 6:15 a.m., followed by the reciting of the Augustinian corona, then scripture reading before 7:30 Morning Prayer. At approximately 1 p.m. I pray the Midday prayer. At 4:30 p.m., I recite a penitential rosary, followed by scripture reading, then evening prayer at 5:30. I then pray Night Prayer at 7:30 p.m. Between these activities are spiritual classes, work periods and time for leisure. I view each of these activities as opportunities to continue practicing the presence of God. For example, I am responsible for maintaining the flowers in and outside of the house and find this work very prayerful.

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What’s one thing you wish you knew before entering that you know now?

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This is a good question, but I am not certain I can answer it adequately since we are in the Novitiate now for just over a month. My sense is that I will come to better appreciate the time and work necessary for interior spiritual healing and, also, the importance of conversing regularly as a community in order to problem solve and help each other grow spiritually.