For historical reasons, our Motherhouse, for the past two centuries, has been located in the 6th arrondissement in Paris, that is, in the heart of the city. It is a place that has a great sentimental value for many Missionaries and members of the Worldwide Vincentian Family who have had the opportunity to visit and spend time at our “Maison-mère” (formation sessions, some Vincentian pilgrimage or just touring Paris).During a recent visit to the Motherhouse, I had the impression that when we had received the news about the project to restore and remodel this building, the news was not completely accurate. Upon receiving that news, I rejoiced because of its historical significance and the Vincentian value that this house represents when speaking about our patrimony. In other words, my joy had an element of nostalgia … like that which intoxicates the heart when one experiences those emotions that are hidden in the recesses of one’s memory.
Nevertheless, I have discovered in the Motherhouse a projection into the future that I would like to share in this brief narrative: At this time, April 2022, some thirty-two rooms (with bath and shower) have been done over. Nineteen of those rooms are now available for confreres, priests, bishops, who visit Paris. The other 12 rooms have been furnished for groups from the various branches of the Vincentian Family (these rooms have multiple beds, and some have been redesigned to receive couples). The room of the Superior General has been renovated with a concept that combines simplicity with elegance (an element that is proper to the Vincentian charism).
The restoration also includes the entrances to the Motherhouse and even though that work has not been completed, nevertheless visitors can experience the process of change from the time that they are welcomed at the front door.
True, one could continue to discover a panorama that is better visualized with the photos that are shared below. Before concluding this work, however, it must be said that the most important element, and perhaps the greatest aspect of all this work is that all of this must be viewed from the perspective of a project that seeks to convert our Motherhouse not only into the heart of Paris (because of its location and history) but also in the lungs of the Vincentian charism that provides new air through the various ministries that can be carried out in this place.
The Motherhouse of the future appears to be ready to host multiple events of the Vincentian Family, even in the midst of conditions as complex as the present COVID-19 pandemic. The house will have spacious meeting rooms that are equipped with the latest technology. It is a place that, if individuals know how to take advantage of the opportunity, radiates the Vincentian spirit though pilgrimages, formation sessions, accompaniment, people engaged in projects of human promotion, concern for individuals living on the peripheries … in summary, a series of initiatives arising from an ability to appreciate the treasure that is placed in our hands. Indeed, as a result of the efforts of those who are working at the restoration of this building, we will be able to enjoy not only a Vincentian icon from the past but perhaps a pearl of the charism in the future. –
Fr. Rolando Gutiérrez, CM
