On 8 February 1861, 150 years ago

2011 is a “holy” year for the Family of Pierre Bienvenu Noailles. On 8 February 1861, 150 years ago, an important stage was reached in the story of the Holy Family.

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2011 is a “holy” year for the Family of Pierre Bienvenu Noailles.  On 8 February 1861, 150 years ago, an important stage was reached in the story of the Holy Family.   

 

Everything had begun in the Seminary of Issy, near Paris.  There, as a young seminarian, Pierre Bienvenu Noailles gave his life to God.  Like every young person, he dreamed...but his dreams were sustained by the solidity of his faith; his hope was as strong as a rock and his love was so great that it sought to embrace the whole world.  Soon he set out on a journey that was not a solitary one.  As sometimes happens for those who begin something new, he was well aware of his limitations; he felt doubt, but Jesus showed his approval in the Miraculous Benediction and Pierre Noailles continued his journey reassured and strengthened by God’s visible blessing.  

 

It was risky to set out into the unknown but Pierre Noailles trusted.  He did not seek the security of the familiar and known; he formed a community...a Family made up of people from all milieux and all vocations.  The needs of his contemporaries were great and he was open to collaboration from all who presented themselves. 

 

150 years have passed, since the 8 February 1861 when Pierre Bienvenu Noailles completed his journey.  The Family he founded continues the journey, responding to all kinds of calls, trying to live the spirit of GOD ALONE.  Eyes fixed on the humility and simplicity of Nazareth, the members of the Family carry out the mission of creating communion, spreading and strengthening the faith in all social classes, forming one single Family which today is opening out to a new vision of the world … a new way of relating to God, to humanity and the whole of creation - a mission that is truly relevant for today

Pierre Bienvenu Noailles who was declared Venerable on 8 February 1988 accompanies his Family and he accompanies in a special way those who pray through his intercession.  Many people receive favours through his intercession and we pray that the day will soon come when we will see him proclaimed “Blessed” by the Church.  This would be a source of great encouragement for us, members of the Family, as we give ourselves in service to the Church and the world which seeks and needs the serenity that comes from knowing and experiencing the love of God Alone.  

Mª Carmen Leach