The watchword among the Augustinian Recollects continues to be the same “revitalization”. And it is achieved by means of permanent formation, both in a day-to day basis or through extraordinary activities. Of these the one that is more convincing is the Course of Renewal, which the Order has been doing for almost 40 years.
In theory these courses of four weeks take place every year alternating continents: Europe and America. Asia has its own rhythm. However, lately the three have coincided in short period of time: last month of July the Course in Europe took place in Rome; next April 27 that of the Philippines will start in the City of Baguio; and between the 12th of January and 8th of February the Course of Renewal organized for the entire American continent is being celebrated.
35 Augustinian Recollects from 6 Countries
A total of 35 Augustinian Recollects have met in Rio de Janeiro coming from six different countries: Colombia, Perú, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Mexico, in addition to Brazil. More than half, a total of 20, live in the host country. It is very possible that it may be the first time that in an inter-Provincial activity there is a Portuguese speaking majority. In charge of all of them, coming from Rome in representation of the General Government, is Pablo Panedas, councilor in charge of the Secretariat of Spirituality of the Order.
The theme that inspires the reflection and activities of this Course is that which corresponds to the year 2014: The Community and Fraternity. After a first week dedicated to spiritual exercises, the conferences and the following dynamics are directed towards the strengthening and revitalizing this reality which constitutes the very essence of Augustinian Recollect life.
In a climate of brotherhood and intense prayer, under the guidance of specialists coming from inside and outside of the Order, this compact group of religious will fully dedicate these four weeks to the renewal of their ideas and sensibility with respect to communitarian life. In Rio de Janeiro the will light a flame which they will bring when they return to their homes in order to pass on that flame to all the communities of the American Continent.