Austin Friars for Dummies

Austin Friars refers to a term that might sound a little bit confusing at first, but don't worry, I'm here to help you understand it! Imagine a group of people who live together in a special place. They have their own rules, their own way of doing things, and they are all really good friends. Well, Austin Friars is a name given to such a group, but it specifically refers to a community of friars who follow a religious order called the Order of Saint Augustine. So, let's break it down in simpler terms!

First, let's talk about friars. Friars are kind of like a special type of religious people. They are not like monks who stay in a monastery all the time, but instead, they go out into the world to help others and spread goodness. Friars wear a special outfit, which you might see in pictures or movies - it consists of a long robe and a hood. Now, Austin Friars, in particular, are named after a place called Austin Friary, which was the first house or community of this special group. And guess what? It all started in the city of London, a long time ago!

You know when you visit a friend's house, and they have their own rules? Like taking off your shoes before entering, or washing your hands before eating? Well, friars living in Austin Friars also have their own special rules that they follow. They dedicate their lives to praying, helping people, and living according to the teachings of Saint Augustine, who was a very wise and important person in their religion.

So, to sum it all up, Austin Friars means a community of friars who follow the teachings of Saint Augustine and live together in a special place. They are like a big family, helping others, and doing good things in the world. So, next time you hear the term Austin Friars, remember this little story I told you, and you will know exactly what it means!