An Unrecognized and Unlikely Influence? The Impact of Valerius of Hippo on Augustine

While Augustine of Hippo is rightfully remembered in Christian history as a philosopher, theologian, and bishop, most students would acknowledge that he benefited from others who taught and discipled him in his journey to Christian faith and ministry. Monica, Ambrose, and friends certainly have a pl...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Smither, Edward L. (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Sage 2007
In: Irish theological quarterly
Year: 2007, Volume: 72, Issue: 3, Pages: 251-264
Further subjects:B Augustine
B Ministry
B Valerius
B Mentoring
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
Parallel Edition:Electronic
Description
Summary:While Augustine of Hippo is rightfully remembered in Christian history as a philosopher, theologian, and bishop, most students would acknowledge that he benefited from others who taught and discipled him in his journey to Christian faith and ministry. Monica, Ambrose, and friends certainly have a place in this group of mentors. Yet, one unlikely and largely forgotten figure, Valerius of Hippo, seems to have had a sizeable impact on Augustine at the outset of his ministry as a presbyter and bishop in Hippo. This article will consider how Valerius selected Augustine for ministry, maintained an important mentor—disciple relationship with him, and increasingly involved him in the work of the church before releasing him to his own ministry. As traces of Valerius' discipleship method are observed in Augustine's subsequent ministry to other spiritual leaders, the argument will be made that Augustine was significantly influenced by Valerius, an unlikely and unrecognized mentor.
ISSN:1752-4989
Contains:Enthalten in: Irish theological quarterly
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1177/0021140007085490