From April 4-6, the Prior General, Friar Miguel Angel Hernandez, visited the city of Cafayate, located in the province of Salta, in the north of Argentina, as part of his tour of the communities of the Order in Argentina. There he was received by the bishop of the Prelature of Cafayate, the Augustinian Recollect Bishop Dario Ruben Quintana.
The visit began with a close and enriching meeting between the Prior General and those in charge of catechesis, as well as the Eucharistic ministers of the Prelature. These moments of dialogue and fraternity allowed us to share pastoral experiences and renew our commitment to the mission.
“These meetings remind us that the mission is built on listening and closeness,” said Fr. Michelangelo.
One of the most endearing moments of the visit was the lunch shared in the town of Santa Maria, where the Order of St. Augustine has one of its communities. In this small corner of Cafayate, there was an atmosphere of welcome and camaraderie.
“Fraternity is the heart of our Augustinian life,” said Bishop Darío, highlighting the importance of these spaces of coexistence to strengthen community life.
Cafayate, known for its majestic landscapes and its wine tradition, is also a place of profound Augustinian presence. ” The Prelature has historically been a land of mission and spiritual accompaniment,” emphasizes Bishop Darío.
Every summer, Cafayate welcomes a group of JAR youth from the Ministries of Argentina, who carry out a mission of solidarity in the region. The commitment of the young people gives new impetus to the Augustinian Recollect presence in this land.
During the days of the visit, there was an atmosphere of joy, fraternity and deep pastoral sense. The closeness and dedication of Mons. Darío Rubén Quintana were a reason for gratitude on the part of the community and all those who participated in this meeting.
The trip concluded with sincere thanks to the local community for their generous welcome. The mountains of Cafayate, silent witnesses of so many missions, continue to be a symbol of hope and dedication. In them, the Augustinian tradition continues to accompany the people of God, regardless of distance and difficulties.