Talavera House of Prayer was initially conceived in response to the need of the University of San Jose-Recoletos to facilitate the spiritual growth and enrich the faith of its students, employees and administrators. After some years of planning and searching for the ideal place, this retreat house was born. The construction of the building started on March 1997 and on May 30, 1998, this retreat ho
use was inaugurated. It began operating last July 1998 under the loving care of the Augustinian Recollect Sisters. On Dec. 5, 1588 the Province of Castille of the Order of Augustine (OSA) reached a decision during its chapter that some houses be alloted for the religious who longed for a contemplative life, for a more autere way of life. On September 20 of the following year the convent of Talavera de la Reina, in Spain, opened its doors to this new breed of religious. Since then it has reserved the honor of being the cradle of what was going to be a new religious order, the now known as Order of Augustinian Recollects (OAR). The name Talavera de la Reina is very close to the heart of the Recollects. For that reason the name resounds in many places of the world where the Recollects have been. It is because for the Recollects Talavera symbolizes the spiritual rebirth, evangelical radicalism and the longing for a life of loving dedication and closeness to the Lord. This is the reason why this retreat house is named Talavera House of Prayer. Talavera House of Prayer is a venue for prayer, renewal and individual solitude. It is open to everyone. It is hoped that this place be of help to those who want to let God into their lives.
