Augustine: If you are set to deliver this month and really long to name your wee one the fun summer month, why not just make the leap to Augustine? While August is nice, really, it's only a month on the calendar! Augustine is not only warm, he strong, manly, and brave.
St. Augustine of Hippo was as fiery as the sun, and after his conversion, his heart burned with the love of God. He became one of the Doctor's of the Church. Much of what he wrote about Christianity became the foundation of our Christian faith and his works are still read today. His feast day is August 28th.
If you imagine your little sunshine to be more warm sunbeams than a firestarter, you might consider St. Augustine of Canterbury as his guide. His zeal for Christ, and his kindness led to the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons in the 6th Century and laid the foundation for the rise of Christianity across the pond. His feast day is May 28.
If Augustine seems to much of a name for your little sport, then consider Austin. It's been popular for many years, probably because of it's Cowboy appeal and simplicity. Most people think of Texas, but it's actually the short form of Augustine.
(Pronounced either uh-GUS-tin or AW-ges-teen)
The feminine Augustina would be absolutely stunning! It's modern, fresh, and, well, warm.
Aubin: If you fancy French names, here's one that is new, yet familiar and easy on the eyes and tongue. It's just different enough that your little sailor will make a splash! St. Aubin, also known as St. Albinus in English, is the patron against pirate attacks. How cool is that?! What a great model for your little captain fighting his imaginary battles on the open seas!
Aurelius: If you are one of those parents who's not afraid to be daring, then maybe Aurelius is worth a look. He has history, class, and charm. St. Aurelius was Bishop and a friend to St. Augustine. Augustine and Aurelius would make a totally cool and totally Catholic twin set! If you find Aurelius too ancient, then maybe you'd like the Italian version, Aurelio.
Having a daughter? Then why not use the feminine version, Aurelia? It's fresh and smart and there are plenty of St. Aurelia's for your sweetheart to have as her guide.
Aulay: Considering the popularity of Irish and Scottish names, I thought I would add this one to my list. If you like Aidan but he seems to popular or you like Finlay but he seems to unisex for your taste, then maybe this one is worth considering. Aulay is the Scottish form of Olaf. Saint Olaf of Norway is attributed to the conversion of that entire country in the 11th Century.
Audax: This is my favorite name on this list! It is cool and hot, fresh and exciting! Hurry! Use it before Angelina and Brad discover it! The name means "bold and daring," which is exactly what this choice would be. St. Audax was martyred in the 3rd Century along with two other Saints, Victoria and Anatolia.
Augusta: Okay, I know it's a bit old-fashioned. But Grandma names seem all the rage now. Your little Augusta will not seem out of place among all the Eleanors, Alices, and Charlottes. St. Augusta was martyred in the 2nd century and her relics were discovered on August 22.
Since this is technically the feminine of Augustus, I'll mention this one here. Augustus is strong and handsome, for sure, but if he seems too stuffy and literary for you, maybe you could try the Spanish, Augusto. There's that awesome "o" at the end.
Aurea: Okay, so you are in love with Aurora. Try Aurea instead. She's just as soft and gentle as the Fairy tale name, and she has Catholic credentials! This lovely name means "golden," perfect for little August sunshine! Aurea is warm, inviting, and sweet. There are at least two St. Aurea's; one in Italy and the other in Spain.
Audrey: I have a soft spot for Audrey. She brings to mind Hollywood from that era of glamorous leading ladies and their debonair leading guys. She's beautifully feminine, yet sophisticated. Rather than use this name to honor the glitz and glamour of today's Hollywood, think about St. Audrey. She was a 6th Century saint of the ancient Anglo-Saxons who committed herself to Christ. How's that for taking back a name???
