With the average age of the friars rising, the number of friars needing extra care has increased. It’s a phenomenon more common in Spain probably because the greater number of the religious come from there and that’s where they return to after giving their lives servicing in other lands. The Order looks after the wellbeing of all its members and makes even more of an effort when it comes to the elderly and sick. St. Augustine told us to do this and we find it written in our Constitutions that “those who are sick are a treasure in the community”.
Salamanca
The first residence for the sick was set up in Salamanca, in what had been the house for theology studies St Thomas of Villanueva. It was opened at the end of last December. There are 9 rooms, a chapel, a therapy room, an all purpose room and office for the nurse who is there 18 hours a day. There are presently two religious being looked after.
Valladolid
On the fifth of January the residence in St. Augustine’s College was opened. A good number of religious were at the opening. There are 8 rooms purposely rearranged as well as other installations: a chapel, a dining room and sitting room, a therapy room, a surgery, a nurse’s room, a lift and a garden. Two religious look after the centre and are helped by a specialized team. At present there are four religious in residence who are being cared for.
Pamplona
And on 25th March, the third residence was opened in Pamplona. It is a new building altogether. The opening was presided over by the Prior General, Fr. Miguel Miro. He expressed his thanks to the elderly and sick on behalf of the Order. This residence, under the patronage of St. Monica, has 18 rooms. It has a chapel, rooms where the residents can feel at home and lots of space to live the life of a religious community. The building is characterised by its light and functionality. Stain glass windows of our Lady of Consolation, St. Augustine, St. Monica and St. Ezekiel designed by the Augustinian Recollects Rafael Nieto will be set in place shortly.