Brother Barnaby Johns will be consecrating his life to God as member of the Augustinian Order on June 7, 2015 at Ojai Villanova Preparatory School with the profession of solemn vows. The vows consist of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and they will make him a member of the Augustinian order for life.

Brother Barney was first initiated into the order in 2006. He has since undergone pre-novice and novice training, philosophy for one year, and theology for three years. His final vows mark his permanent induction into the Augustinian Order.

His impetus for professing these vows was a strong desire to give his life more fully to God and have Christ at the center of all that he does.

“One could get to God through many ways, but I have gained a sense of compulsion to give my life in this way. I felt compelled to God’s calling,” he said.

Brother Barney lived in multiple cities in Japan and England prior to joining the Augustinian brotherhood. He taught and worked in communications before finding his niche at Saints in the 2010-2011 school year. He then had to leave Saints in order to further his theological studies, during which he greatly missed the Saints community.

Saintsmen have gained a similar sense of fondness for Brother Barney. Whether through his leadership of the Wednesday Mass band, instruction of freshman and sophomore religion, or assistance to tennis team, students have benefited from his presence.

“He is very charismatic and knowledgeable of his subject [Old Testament],” said sophomore Jacob Yudiono. “He cares for his students and players, never hesitating to lend a helping hand.”

The faculty and staff of St. Augustine High School is excited for Brother Barney. They have been supportive during his journey.

“I am very happy to have Brother Barney as a member of the Religion Department,” said Mr. Bachynsky, who is that department’s chairman. “He is a creative, knowledgeable teacher who cares deeply about the spiritual growth of his students.”

By Sean Panado (’17)

This article originally appeared in The Augustinian, the student-run newspaper of St. Augustine High School. Read The Augustinian here: http://www.sahs.org/campus-life/the-augustinian/