Saint Augustine of Canterbury (c. 540–604) was an Italian Benedictine monk and the first Archbishop of Canterbury. Sent by Pope Gregory the Great to evangelize the Anglo-Saxons in England, Augustine played a pivotal role in the Christianization of Britain. Despite initial challenges, he successfully established the Christian faith in southern England, founding the Church in Canterbury and initiating missionary work across the country. Augustine’s efforts helped unite the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms under the banner of Christianity. He is remembered for his courage, humility, and dedication to spreading the Gospel. He was canonized as a saint, and his feast day is celebrated on May 27.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has decreed that this is a Holy Day of Memorial (Optional) to be observed in Canada.