Pope Leo XIV is the first member of the Order of St. Augustine to be elected pope - but who are the Augustinians?

Pope Leo XIV's election as the first U.S. pope and a member of the Order of St. Augustine surprises and delights the assembled crowd. Only 51 of 267 popes have come from religious orders, including recent papacy figures like Pope Francis. The Order of St. Augustine, rooted in early Christian monasticism, adheres to the Rule of St. Augustine, created around 400 AD, emphasizing community living and mutual respect. The rule serves as a guiding principle for monastic life, highlighting the importance of common life and living in harmony with fellow believers.

The election of Pope Leo XIV marks a significant moment in history as he is the first pope from the United States and a member of the Order of St. Augustine.

The Rule of St. Augustine, established around 400 AD, emphasizes a common life where monks are instructed to love God and neighbors by living as one.

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