Presiding over a Mass for the liturgical memorial of Saint Augustine on August 28 in Rome, Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas urged the Church to embrace the saint’s vision of becoming an open, welcoming community. Speaking at the Basilica of Saint Augustine, the Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major reflected on the profound spiritual journey of the “Doctor of Grace,” highlighting his lifelong dedication to serving the Church, preaching the truth, and forming the faithful.
In his homily, Cardinal Makrickas emphasized that Augustine’s pastoral insight viewed the Church not as a mere collection of structures or institutions, but as a grace-filled family where the Word is heard, the Eucharist is celebrated, and the poor are welcomed. Drawing connections to the liturgical readings, the Cardinal noted how Augustine harmonized faith and reason, demonstrating that intellectual inquiry and humble devotion can coexist when seeking the ultimate Truth found in Jesus Christ.
Addressing the clergy and ministers, Cardinal Makrickas underscored Saint Augustine’s insistence that authentic Church leaders must direct the faithful to Christ, the true Shepherd, rather than seeking personal recognition. Reflecting on Augustine’s famous internal restlessness before his conversion, the Cardinal offered encouragement to modern believers, explaining that life’s doubts and struggles can become the very spaces where God encounters humanity amid the noise of modern society.
The celebration gathered various branches of the Augustinian family, including friars, religious sisters, and lay affiliates, alongside concelebrants such as Father Bruno Silvestrini and local Prior Father Pasquale Cormio. Concluding the Mass, Cardinal Makrickas led the congregation in a supplication to Saint Augustine, asking for his continued intercession to guide humanity toward peace and the building of the City of God.