Some of the treasures of the history of the Province of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine of the Order of Augustinian Recollects and the environments and spaces where it has carried out its work throughout history and today.
Philippines
Palawan, known for its pristine waters, rocks, and palm trees that grace Instagram, was once a remote western region of the Philippines before the tourism boom. The Augustinian Recollects played a decisive role here. Its capital, Puerto Princesa, is one of the few cities that can claim to have been founded by a saint, Saint Ezekiel Moreno.
During colonial times, the island served as a penal colony. Many who joined Saint Ezekiel on the 1872 expedition to establish the colony were convicts sent to the island, notorious for its unhealthy conditions and malaria.
From 1907 to 1948, the Augustinian Recollects served as chaplains at the Iwahig Penal Colony, established in 1904. The inmates enjoyed a degree of freedom, earning their living through farming, fishing, workshops, and handicrafts, and managing their social lives. Escape attempts were rare, and the colony’s land area expanded from the initial nine hectares to forty-five.
Spain
The Prison Pastoral Team of Santa Monica Parish in Zaragoza has advocated for the human and Christian development of male and female inmates at the Zuera and Daroca penal institutions. They have overseen training programs (computer technology, handicrafts, ceramics, theater), healthcare (illness and addiction prevention), recreational projects (free time club, recreation, sports), and pastoral services (Family Encounter Project, liturgical services, and celebrations). They have also promoted volunteerism among university students, family activities with inmates, and the humanization of jails in collaboration with civil officials and volunteers.
Mexico
Since 2005, the Secular Augustinian Recollect Fraternity in Santa Monica (Mexico City) has participated in prison visits to the Northern Male Annex and Female Annex of Tepepan, in partnership with the Pro-Labore Committee of the Secretariat of Labour and Social Security. They provide courses and workshops on mental healthcare and the meaning of life.
United States
In New Mexico and Texas, the Augustinian Recollects have provided ongoing support to migrants along one of the world’s most challenging borders. Their efforts include sheltering those awaiting a final decision after receiving a temporary permit while their cases are resolved. The assistance offered at deportation centres, where hope, affection, monitoring, and comfort are crucial is particularly challenging..
• Índice: Table of content: Treausres & places.
