Martin Bellerose: A theology of hospitality as shown in Augustine’s understanding of the Theophany of Mamre

The paper will analyse two of Augustine’s texts on the theophany of Mamre: one from On Trinity (II.10-11); and the other, from The City of God (XVI.29). Although Augustine seems more interested in determining if it is about a christophany or a theophany and about the use of singular and plural to refer to the visitors, both writings evoke the theme of hospitality, and take into account the fact that Genesis 18:1-15 is a key text on hospitality.We suggest that in these writings the bishop of Hippo settles some pastoral and theological pathways for a praxis of hospitality. It is in some manner the theological basis of how he understood the asylum offered by the Christians when they opened their Basilica to shelter the refugees during the destruction of Rome in 410. We also consider that it is the foundation of his sermon of hospitality although, as far we know, he never preached on hospitality from Genesis 18:1-15 as did John Chrysostom, Ambrose, Maxim of Torino or Cesar of Arles among others.First, we will analyse Augustine’s understanding of hospitality in both mentioned texts. Second, we will see how these understandings give rise to the more practical position of the bishop of Hippo. In conclusion, we will see how Augustine’s writings mentioned above can nourish our present day reflection on hospitality toward refugees in a broader perspective of the theology of migration.