New Program for Lay People a Great Success

As more and more lay people are interested in coming to Le Puy to deepen their understanding of the history and spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph, the International Centre Board decided to offer a second program for lay people with Sr. Mary Rowell (SSJs in Canada) as presenter.

“Stepping into the Past, Living in the Present, and Journeying toward the Future” (May 1-7) integrated prayer, reflection, presentations, and sharing with visits to special SSJ sites in Le Puy and Lyon. Participants also engaged in “walking together” as they discerned the movement of the Spirit. As the week evolved, meal times seemed to go longer while prayer times grew more intensely as the group shared stories of each other’s lives and experiences in ministry. On the last full day, the group celebrated the Coronation of Charles III with English tea sandwiches, “trifle”, and a sparkling wine toast to the new king. However, what was most significant among the three associates, one former sister, and three vowed religious was a lack of distinction or hierarchy among them as they showed appreciation for each other’s journey as a part of the “Family of Joseph”.