SANCTUAIRE SAINT-JOSEPH DU BESSILLON

Cotignac is an important place for Christian prayer, as it is the site of the apparition of Saint Joseph, one of the greatest saints in Christian history. On a hot day in 1660, June 7 to be precise, Gaspard Ricard, a 22-year-old shepherd, was leading his flock up the eastern slope of the Bessillon. In the early afternoon, the heat is intense... Thirsty, he lies down for a moment on the rocky ground when a man of imposing stature suddenly stands beside him, pointing to a rock and saying: "I am Joseph, take it away and you will drink." The stone is heavy, but the venerable old man, as the accounts of the time describe him, repeats his order. The shepherd obeyed and moved the rock, only to discover fresh water trickling down. He immediately quenches his thirst. When he gets up again, the apparition has already disappeared. Without further ado, he takes the news to the village, and the curious arrive. Three hours after the event, in a place that everyone knew had no spring, abundant water flowed. On their return from Algeria, the Benedictine nuns of Medea founded the priory on the very spot where a sanctuary had been built, not far from that of Notre-Dame-de-Grâces. Pilgrimages take place on March 19, May¹ and June 16. At the end of 2019, the Benedictine nuns leave their monastery. Since then, a community of Mater Dei sisters has moved in, continuing the tradition of welcoming pilgrims, couples and retreatants (women only) of all kinds. The welcome takes place within the monastery enclosure, in a simple-style guesthouse, and is characterized by a climate of silence. Everyone is invited to take part in daily mass and liturgical services. The retreats are designed to suit each individual's rhythm. Guests are also asked to participate in the life of the monastery by sharing in daily chores (washing up, cutlery, service, room cleaning, etc.). Meals are taken together in the refectory, in silence.

Offices: readings at 6am on weekdays and 6:30am on Sundays, Lauds at 7am on weekdays and 7:30am on Sundays, Mass at 8:30am on weekdays and 10:30am on Sundays, Sext at 12pm on weekdays and 12:30pm on Sundays, Vespers at 5pm, Compline at 9:15pm. Adoration at 5:30pm.

Accommodation : single and double rooms. Full board. Maximum stay 5 days. Bring your own sheets and towels.