Fontbonne Birthplace -- 2019

Mount Saint Mary's University--Los Angeles purchased the birthplace home of Mother St. John Fontbonne, which is located in the small French town of Bas-en-Basset on the Loire River. The house serves as a welcoming space for pilgrims, a study place for faculty and students, and a destination for members of the MSMU community seeking a different kind of French experience.

The house was purchased shortly after the University's 2018 pilgrimage to Le Puy and several small towns of significance to the life of Mother St. John Fontbonne. University President Ann McElaney-Johnson and Grace Kadner Wickersham, chairperson of the MSMU Finance Committee, noticed a for-sale sign in the house's window and made inquiries with a local realtor--with the help of tour guide Patrick Fargier, who had real estate background. The house had recently been renovated, so all it needed was a little paint and some furnishings.

Starting in fall 2019, faculty used the space for research. The University also hopes to provide study-abroad opportunities for students to visit the home and immerse themselves in experiencing the spirit of the founders, according to an article in Mount Magazine.

The CSJ Institute at MSMU plans to work with other pilgrimage groups from CSJ-sponsored institutions so the larger faith community can enter the home and reflect more deeply on Fontbonne’s life, legacy, and her courage. The Center for Global Initiaties, directed by Lia Roberts, will also be involved in planning programs in "Bas".

"This house is back in the family," declared McElaney-Johnson at a blessing ceremony held on June 26, 2019. “Mother St. John Fontbonne stands as a cornerstone of the foundation of our history. Knowing her, we understand better the lives and love of the sisters who have followed her.”

Read more about the Blessing Ceremony