By Almudena Martínez-Bordiú
Rome Newsroom, Apr 15, 2025 / 14:26 pm
The Trinitarian order, founded at the end of the 12th century to free persecuted Christians, continues its mission today by quietly and humbly assisting those persecuted for their faith.
Located in Rome’s Trastevere neighborhood, near the Tiber River, stands the basilica of St. Chrysogonus, served by the Trinitarian order since 1850. This basilica was built in memory of a Roman soldier who died a martyr after converting to Christianity.
In an interview with ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner, Father Antonio Aurelio, vicar general of the Trinitarian order, emphasized their mission stating, “we were born to go to the dungeons.”
Father Aurelio, dressed in the distinctive white habit with a blue and red cross, explained the significance of the Trinitarian order within the Catholic Church, marking a turning point in its history.
A mission: To liberate Christians
“The founding of the order in 1198 was a unique event in the history of the Church, as until then only monastic life existed,” Aurelio stated. St. John of Matha, the order’s founder, created the first order that actively helped those in need, especially Christians taken prisoner during the Crusades (1096–1291), paying ransoms and even exchanging places with them.
Step back in time to an era where the Trinitarian order was established with a noble mission – to rescue and redeem both Christian captives and Muslims. This initiative paved the way for a new model of religious life, one that focused on action and service beyond the walls of a monastery. As the vicar general aptly put it, the Trinitarians ventured into war zones not with weapons, but with a cross, in the name of peace.
Their selfless actions earned them the title of “redeemers,” for they followed in the footsteps of the Redeemer himself. Just as Jesus left his heavenly abode to seek out and free humanity from darkness, the Trinitarians left their homes to bring light to those in need. Their dedication and sacrifice continue to inspire awe and admiration.
Even today, there are Trinitarians on the path to beatification, such as Antonio da Conceiçao, José de la Madre de Dios, and Ignacio Tavares, who gave their lives for Christian prisoners. These brave souls exemplify the true spirit of compassion and selflessness.
One cannot overlook the modern-day captives of the 21st century, who are persecuted for their faith. In response to this pressing need, the Trinitarian International Solidarity (TIS) was established in 1999 to aid persecuted Christians and advocate for religious freedom.
21st-century captives
The Trinitarians continue to uphold their legacy by dedicating themselves to the captives of today – those who face persecution for their beliefs. The 2023 World Religious Freedom Report by Aid to the Church in Need sheds light on the harsh reality faced by Christians, who remain the most persecuted religious group globally. It’s heartening to see the Trinitarians carry on their mission with unwavering dedication and commitment, standing as beacons of hope for those in need.
