The Augustinian order in Catalonia consists of four religious who live together in an apartment above the El Carme parish, in Barcelona's Raval neighborhood. These members, two of Filipino origin and two of Tanzanian origin, manage several parish communities, including the Filipino parish, Sant Agustí, and Sant Roc in Badalona.
Sunday masses at Sant Agustí parish, conducted in Tagalog and English, have become an essential meeting point for the Filipino community. This influx of worshippers reflects what Pope Francis described as the "smuggling of faith" by Filipino migrants, who bring the Gospel to "all peripheries."
“"The bishop chose this parish for them because it is large, central, and very close to where the Filipino community lives in Barcelona."
The work of these religious goes beyond the spiritual realm, offering a space for community and support to newcomers. At Sant Agustí parish, which shares a temple with the Filipino parish, worshippers from other Latin American countries also gather. From these parishes in Raval, language courses are promoted, and contact is maintained with the Filipino consulate, a social task that will be presented to Pope Leo XVI during his visit.
“"The Filipino parish is here to help newcomers, but the goal is for everyone to integrate and also to bring life to the other churches."
The visit of Pope Leo XVI, who was already familiar with the city from previous stays before becoming pontiff, will include a meeting where the important social work carried out by these religious communities will be highlighted. The Sant Agustí church is being prepared with urgent renovations for the occasion.
