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Born 354 in Africa, St Augustine of Hippo lived a decadent life of parties and riches until his conversion experience, after which he became a priest, then a bishop and is now one of the most influential Christian writers to have ever lived. St Augustine promoted stillness and silence during contemplation with true peace of mind only attainable through trust in God: “Our heart is restless until it rests in you.” Augustinian contemplation encourages a person to listen or read the words of Scripture as if the message is being said specifically to them.
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St Francis of Assisi was born in Italy in 1181 to a wealthy merchant. Like St Augustine and St Ignatius, he enjoyed many riches and dreamed of becoming famous. After his conversion experience he embraced poverty and began the Franciscan Order. After he became Pope, changed his name, as is tradition from Jorge to Francis after St Francis. St Francis is known to care for lepers, love all of creation and even have discussions with a Muslim Sultan during the time of the 5th Crusade. Franciscan Contemplation begins with reflecting on Scripture and then to reflect on what action that passage is calling you to do.
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St Ignatius of Loyola was born in 1491AD in Spain. He had dreams of doing great things but was seriously injured during a battle with the French in 1521AD. While recovering, he experienced a change of heart where his new desire was to great things for others rather than for himself. He founded the Society of Jesus/The Jesuits to whom Pope Francis belongs - their aim is to be "contemplatives in action". Ignatian Contemplation has several steps to encourage people to reflect on their thoughts and actions:
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