News 

For over the 12 months, Novitiate Community of the Institute of the Sisters of St. Joseph had tried numerous times to visit the Centre. Their plans, however, were dashed by coronavirus restrictions and lock-downs. In May, they were finally able to travel from Lyon to Le Puy—and they even brought a picnic lunch of sandwiches, salad, cheese, dessert, and Muscat wine.

Flowers are popping out all over and the garden is growing: tomatoes, pumpkins, and cabbage.

Last spring, France began vaccinating millions of people to protect them from the coronavirus. Eluiza and Olga received their shots in May and June.

At its April meeting, the International Centre Board decided to close the Centre for the 2021 season. Concerns and uncertainty about the health and safety of visitors traveling to France from many parts of the world during the coronavirus pandemic made this decision necessary. The Board, however, is already looking to the future and wants to use this year to advance new initiatives at the Centre.

The Living History Centre is now posted in Powerpoint.

Nineteen sheep arrived in small groups starting on April 9 to munch grass in the backyard of the International Centre. By April 24, they had eaten all the grass and moved on to a 15-hectare (37 acres) pasture.

Last June’s flood damaged the ceiling and walls of the Community Room. This made it necessary to repair the leaks and to paint and re-paper the room. For 7 days, Philippe and his apprentice, Enzo, worked diligently to produce a beautiful result. The nature-oriented theme of the room provides a warm, bright, and welcoming feel. We look forward to the days when we can share this room with you.

Here is a collage of our celebrations

The Institute of the Sisters of St. Joseph (France) brought health care leaders of their senior citizens’ residences to the Centre for a day-long meeting and a meal of spaghetti and meatballs. Sr. Monique Vallon, president of the Institute (third from left) was present as well.