« In various professions and services, we want to work for the growth of humanity in Jesus Christ. » (Cf. Constitutions No. 19).
Originally, it was due to the political situation in France that the Sisters of St. Gildas arrived in England in 1903 in Langport, Somerset. From the outset, they considered their presence there a mission. In 1907, the Sisters were invited by the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales to open a Catholic school in their parish in Yeovil, Somerset. Originally, it was due to the political situation in France that the Sisters of Saint Gildas arrived in England in 1903, settling in Langport, Somerset.
From the outset, they considered their presence there a mission. In 1907, the Sisters were invited by the Missionaries of Saint Francis de Sales to open a Catholic school in their parish of Yeovil, Somerset.
This was the first “St. Gildas” school in England. Although it is no longer run by the Sisters, it remains a thriving school to this day. Several other foundations followed: Crouch Hill in London, then Chard, followed by Lyme Regis. A teacher, Frances Booker, as a newly qualified teacher, began her teaching career at St. Gildas in Yeovil. Now a parishioner at St. Peter-in-Chains in London, she shared some of her experience with us: « Sister Marie-Josèphe (Boucard) became my mentor. » «The school, » she said, « was a pillar of faith for the Holy Spirit Parish community… I was privileged to begin my teaching career in such a caring and faith-based community.»
Today, although we are no longer directly involved in education, the same spirit inspires us to collaborate, as much as possible, on local and parish projects, for example, enabling children to become lectors in the liturgy, helping to prepare children to become altar servers… and being available to answer questions about our way of life and our presence as a community in the parish and the local area. Another example: a young university student studying religious life who needs guidance… One of the most enriching experiences was with the “Saint Gildas Family” group, which meets regularly to share and explore aspects of our faith: for example, Church encyclicals such as “Laudato Si'”.
For us, Sisters of Saint Gildas, we are convinced that an ordinary and simple life, shared with others, is an important way of announcing the Gospel and proclaiming Jesus Christ: « We certainly cannot, for our part, keep silent about what we have seen and heard » (Acts 4:20).
Sisters Anne Hogan et Odile Mahé