The Prior General to the Augustinian friars of Colombia in their last Provincial Chapter: “It was nice to see the friars deepen in the discourses that the Holy Father gives to the religious"

The Ordinary Provincial Chapter of Colombia was held at the Liceo Cervantes in Bogota from May 26-30.

From May 26th to 30th, the Ordinary Provincial Chapter of Colombia took place at the Liceo Cervantes in Bogotá.

It was five days of prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the work carried out by Fr. Ronald Antívar Muriel OSA, the outgoing Prior Provincial. He now passes the torch to Fr. Mauricio Saavedra OSA, chosen by the friars of the province as the new provincial. He will lead the Province for the 2025-2029 period, alongside his newly appointed Provincial Council, which includes Fr. William Carreño, Fr. Uriel Zamora, Fr. Julián Ospina, and Fr. Camilo Pineda.

During these days, Fr. Luis Gabriel Sánchez was elected as the Provincial Secretary, and Fr. Alejandro Acevedo OSA as the Provincial Treasurer.

According to the province’s communications office, they “will take on their mission with responsibility and a spirit of service in this new stage.”

“It was a very positive Chapter, with many proposals that will be implemented,” said the Prior General, Fr. Alejandro Moral. Ahead of his 70th birthday, before traveling to Rome to celebrate with Pope Leo XIV, he joined the Augustinian brothers in Colombia for this meaningful occasion in their history.

"From Wednesday to Friday, we reviewed the current state of the Province, examined the work done so far, and discussed what needs to be addressed in the coming years. We must continue walking together, serving the Church," said Fr. Alejandro. "It has been wonderful to see our brothers delve into the discussions and guidelines that the Holy Father provides for religious communities to fulfill our mission more effectively."

For his part, the General Assistant for Latin America, Fr. Alexander Lam OSA, highlighted “the new Provincial’s initiative in proposing new work tools, deepening administrative matters, and optimizing the Order’s assets in Colombia.”

He also noted decisions regarding formation of novices: “Novices will study philosophy during their professed stage of formation, not before,” said Fr. Lam. “This will have implications for the use and organization of the houses.”

Vocational Mission: "Walking in Fraternity"

During the Chapter, both the Prior General and Fr. Lam emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to foster vocations, a task that has become increasingly challenging in recent years.

Currently, the Province of Colombia consists of 56 friars, who, as they expressed at the conclusion of the Chapter, will continue "walking in fraternity, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, strengthening community life, and following the example of St. Augustine."