International experience 2019 Our Lady Of Peace Community in Sainte Mere Eglise, France
The community is made up of four Sisters from four different congregations among whom is a Sister of Saint Jean de Bassel. This summer the community welcomed two young sisters, a Malagasy from the Congregation of St. Jean de Bassel – Sr. Elisa – and a Missionary of the Gospel from Central Africa. They report:
“Discovering Sainte Mère Eglise, the beautiful region of Normandy and its sad history, walking with others in the footsteps of seekers of peace, participating in the mission of the international community « at the service of education for peace and reconciliation », was truly an extraordinary experience for us young sisters from other countries.
Our time on duty in the church allowed us to meet many visitors and pilgrims. Every year more than 500,000 tourists from around the world pass through the church of Sainte Mere. With some of them we were able to discuss and reflect on the theme of Peace. At 6 in the evening at Vespers in church we presented to the Lord the prayer intentions in French, English and German that had been laid at the feet of Our Lady of Peace.
We found that giving a smile, a bit of joy, having a patient ear, and simply being present are ways of bringing peace to others.”