Augustinian Recollects
The Order of Augustinian Recollects (OAR) is a mendicant Catholic religious order that emerged as a reformist offshoot of the Augustinian hermit friars in 16th-century Spain. Known also as "Discalced Augustinians," they emphasize fidelity to the Rule of St. Augustine, community prayer, and simplicity of life. The Order has a significant global presence, particularly in Spain, the Philippines, and Colombia, and plays a vital role in education and missionary work.
Key Facts
- ›Founded as a reform movement within the Augustinian Order in 16th-century Spain.
- ›Emphasizes fidelity to the Rule of St. Augustine, community prayer, and simplicity.
- ›Officially recognized as a separate Mendicant Order in 1912.
- ›As of 2023, numbered approximately 1,240 members in eight provinces across nineteen countries.
- ›Strongest presences are in Spain, the Philippines, and Colombia.
- ›Administers several universities and colleges, particularly in the Philippines.
- Significant Role In the Evangelization of the Philippines.
- Administers Universities and Colleges, Notably In the Philippines.
- Has A Global Presence With Provinces In Multiple Countries.
Discalced Augustinians
Thomas of Andrada, Luis De LeóN, AndréS DíAz, Alonso De Orozco Mena, Juan De Ribera, Mariana Manzanedo of St. Joseph, EzequiéL Moreno Y DíAz, Magdalene of Nagasaki, Abraham A Sancta Clara, José Luis Lacunza MaestrojuáN
- Reform Movement Begun In Spain In the 16th Century.
- First Augustinian Community of the Spanish Regular Observance Established At Talavera In 1588.
- Reform Introduced To Italy In 1592.
- Discalced Friars Sent To the Philippines In 1606.
- Pope Gregory Xv Authorized A Separate Congregation In 1622.
- First Recollects Reached Japan In 1623.
- Houses Founded In Prague and Vienna .
- Persecution By Revolutionary Governments In Spain and Colombia In the 19th Century.
- Formally Recognized As A Separate Mendicant Order In 1912.
- Philippine Province Officially Separated From the Province of San Nicolas De Tolentino On November 28, 1998.
About Augustinian Recollects
The Order of Augustinian Recollects
The Order of Augustinian Recollects (OAR) is a mendicant Catholic religious order with a history rooted in reform and a commitment to the Augustinian tradition. Emerging in 16th-century Spain, the Recollects represent a movement to renew the life of the Augustinian hermit friars, emphasizing a stricter adherence to the Rule of St. Augustine and prioritizing community prayer and simplicity. Also known as "Discalced Augustinians," the order has grown from its Spanish origins to establish a significant global presence.
History and Development
The reform movement that led to the Augustinian Recollects began with efforts to revitalize the Augustinian Order's spiritual and communal life. Key figures like Thomas of Andrada and Luis de León were instrumental in advocating for these changes. The first community of the Spanish Regular Observance was established in Talavera in 1588, followed by the introduction of the reform to Italy in 1592 by Andrés Díaz. The order's missionary spirit led to its expansion into the Philippines in 1606, where it played a crucial role in evangelization, often ministering in less accessible regions. The Order received formal authorization as a separate congregation by Pope Gregory XV in 1622, and was eventually recognized as a distinct Mendicant Order in 1912, the last to receive such designation.
Global Reach and Activities
As of 2023, the Order of Augustinian Recollects comprises around 1,240 members spread across eight provinces in nineteen countries, with the most substantial communities in Spain, the Philippines, and Colombia. The order is dedicated to various forms of ministry, including education, with several universities and colleges, particularly in the Philippines, bearing the "Recoletos" name. Their missionary endeavors have extended to regions such as Japan, Central America, and more recently, to Taiwan and Sierra Leone. The Order also encompasses Augustinian Recollect Nuns and a vibrant Secular Augustinian Recollect Fraternity, which involves lay individuals committed to living the Augustinian charism.
Notable Figures and Legacy
The Order has produced numerous individuals recognized for their holiness, including saints and blesseds, often martyrs of the faith. Saint Ezequiél Moreno y Díaz, a Bishop of Pasto, and Magdalene of Nagasaki, a lay Recollect martyr of Japan, are prominent figures. The Augustinian Recollects' influence is particularly evident in the Philippines, where they have been involved in parish work, education, and have been recognized for their contributions to national history. The Order continues to operate active communities worldwide, maintaining its commitment to the Augustinian spirit of community, prayer, and service.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the Augustinian Recollects?
The Augustinian Recollects originated as a reform movement within the Augustinian hermit friars in Spain during the 16th century. This reform emphasized a return to the original principles of the Rule of St. Augustine, focusing on community prayer and a simpler way of life.
What does "Discalced Augustinians" refer to?
"Discalced Augustinians" is an alternative name for the Augustinian Recollects. The term "discalced" refers to a practice of austerity, often involving going barefoot or wearing simple sandals, which was a characteristic of some reform movements within religious orders.
When were the Augustinian Recollects formally recognized as a separate order?
The Augustinian Recollects were formally recognized as a separate Mendicant Order in 1912. This recognition marked their establishment as an independent religious institution within the Catholic Church.
Where are the Augustinian Recollects most prominent today?
As of 2023, the Augustinian Recollects have their strongest presence in Spain, the Philippines, and Colombia. They operate in nineteen countries across eight provinces worldwide.
What role did the Augustinian Recollects play in the Philippines?
The Augustinian Recollects arrived in the Philippines in 1606 and became significant in the country's evangelization, often taking on missions in remote areas. They also played a role in education and were involved in the socio-political landscape, particularly during the period leading up to the Philippine Revolution.
Do the Augustinian Recollects also have nuns and a third order?
Yes, the Augustinian Recollects include both friars and nuns. Additionally, there is a Secular Augustinian Recollects (SAR) group, which is the Third Order, involving lay men and women who seek to follow the teachings of St. Augustine and share in the charism of the Order.
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