Reviews

Instructing Beginners in Faith (De catechizandis rudibus) by Saint Augustine, Boniface Ramsey

rsanchez455's review against another edition

5.0

Fantastic. A short handbook on evangelism and discipleship from Augustine. A good reminder that Augustine was first and foremost a pastor. He gives other pastors a road map to guide those who show interest in the Christian faith. The road map is an overview of Augustine's salvation history which culminates in Christ and by extension in Christ's people, the Church. Augustine proposes the presentation of an epochal overview of the Scriptures to initiate people in their road of discipleship. Finally, Augustine here encourages a fellow minister in his depression and burnout caused, among other things, by the ordinary nature of Christian ministry. A biblical theology primer from the early 5th century, encouragement for discouraged pastors, and a handbook for evangelism/discipleship in the local church, all in one short volume! The introduction by Raymond Canning is also very helpful as it gives a clear overview of the book and puts it in its context of the catechumenate in 4th and early 5th century Proconsul Africa.