Jeff Raths

​When did you first feel called to religious life? Do you remember a specific place? A person? 
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I first felt a call to religious life in high school, but I did not start discerning until college. That call to religious life was nourished at my home parish – St. Matthew’s in Flint, MI – which happened to be staffed by the Augustinians. There was not a specific person who fostered that initial curiosity for religious life. For me, I was drawn to the faithful witness of the entire Augustinian community at St. Matthew’s.

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​What's something fun / something you enjoy about living in community?  
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The ideal Augustinian community centers upon on a common search for Christ with one’s brothers which both invites and challenges each individual to become the person that God has called them to be. So, I most enjoy the support and encouragement of people who are seeking the common goal of a deepening relationship with Christ.

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

I don’t know that there is a “best kept secret”, but I think St. Augustine’s understanding of friendship is one that deserve more attention in our modern culture. For St. Augustine friendship is never self-serving, instead, it is rooted in a genuine love of Christ, the other person, and a desire for their good. In practice, then, friendship is a way for us to concretize our love for God.

   

Do you have a hobby / passion that you enjoy spending time on?  
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In my free time I enjoy weightlifting and almost any kind of outdoor activity.