A group of sisters, associates, and friends of the St. Augustine Congregation (Florida--USA) held a two-week pilgrimage in France. Before coming to Le Puy they visited Lourdes, Paris, Toulouse, and Lisieux.
The 20-member group was led by Sr. Rita Baum, who has been the coordinator of the St. Augustine associates. Sr. Rita is a former staff member of the International Centre.
The pilgrims visited the Kitchen and other historical sites of the Sisters of St. Joseph. They not only got to know the city of Le Puy, but to witness and participate in the annual King of the Birds Renaissance Festival.
The St. Augustine Congregation is the only congregation in the United States whose roots are directly from Le Puy-en-Velay.
Life at the Centre
Eleven members of the group stayed overnight at the Centre while nine others stayed at the Ibis Hotel. Each day the group met for Mass and dinner.
Mary
Ann visited the Centre 13 years ago. She painted these two pictures and
gave them to the Centre where they still hang on the top floor. She and
her artist-friend, Carolyn, spent much time sketching scenes of the
pilgrimage.
The group visited the Sisters' Chapel near the Kitchen where they also had Mass. The chapel has a close tie to the St. Augustine Congregation because the sisters who went to Florida to educate the newly-freed American slaves took their vows in this chapel. They were also sent on mission from this chapel. It was a meaningful moment of history and legacy.
The group visited the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. One of the pilgrims tried out the Healing Stone.
Some lovely ladies strike a dramatic pose.
What a lovely write up of our fabulous stay in a beautiful place. Thank you for all your hospitality and friendship.
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