Atsushi Kuwahara

​When did you first feel called to religious life? Do you remember a specific place? A person? 
​
When my family moved from Japan to Egypt, I was a leader of prayer in my family. That is when I first felt called to religious life. A few years later, before I was going back to Japan, I visited Jerusalem with my sister and friends. One of my friends, who is a Catholic priest, suggested I explore becoming a Catholic priest.

​

​What's something fun / something you enjoy about living in community?  
​

Praying together is the most powerful moment in community life.   

​​

What is the best kept secret / most underrated aspect of the Tradition and Spirituality of Augustine?  

We must value moderation. As mendicant friars, we need to value both contemplative life and active life. If one side is too strong, our life will not be complete. We need to keep good balance in our Augustinian Life.

   

Do you have a hobby / passion that you enjoy spending time on?  
​

I really enjoy hanging out with friends through a variety of exercise and sports. Especially cycling, mountaineering, soccer, football, camping, and hiking etc. I find that through these activities, I am able to bond with people and build my relationships.