In Hillion, a seaside town in the Saint-Brieuc metropolitan area in Brittany, France, there is a guest house called ‘Daughters of the Holy Spirit’ for those who wish to rest, meet others, get away from it all… Here are some echoes of a recent encounter at this place:
Marie-Reine:
– This Friday in Hillion, gathered in the DHS guest house, we each ‘tasted’ in our own way the discreet yet palpable flavour of being embarked together as ‘Friends in the Spirit’ on the same path, that of Christians Associated with the Congregation of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, to live the Gospel where we are.
– 12 people (*see list below): 3 Sisters and 9 Associates (plus two Associates who were unable to attend). Their presence gives them more of a face, a gaze, a voice, and that feels good! Each person shared a few words, echoing their life as it is today. The looks and the listening become sympathy, sharing, and little by little weave the bonds of fraternity to be continued… ALL THIS adds to the snack table, already set by the attention of Jeanne Yvonne, hostess for the welcome. In addition to pancakes and jams, there are cakes and fresh grapes from St Quay, a nearby town.
– Marie Thérèse, by taking a photo of the group in front of the Sisters’ House, is able to share with all her international friends this little fraternal glimpse of a small corner of Brittany on an ordinary day. And before parting over a glass of sparkling wine, we give thanks with a prayer: ‘Father of all men, it is good to be here to celebrate you with one heart’ ‘Virgin Mary, servant of the poor, show us the Saviour’.
* The list: Yolande A, Yvonne B, Anne D, Annie G, Christiane L.F, Marcelle L, Christiane M, Marie-Reine M, Bernard S, Srs Jeanne, Marie-Thérèse, Jeanne-Yvonne
Unable to attend: Madeleine (who sent a card with a thoughtful and fraternal message on the wings of pretty butterflies) and Florence R. (wishing us a wonderful, friendly and fraternal gathering)
Marcelle,
I experienced this time of reunion and sharing over a festive afternoon tea with a heart full of joy. The circle of friends is growing! I give thanks to the Lord for these special moments. They are too rare! Let’s do it again!
Yvonne,
It was a joy for me. I am happy to have participated. In union of prayer.
Bernard,
During this meeting, I felt once again the richness of sharing. Many very rich testimonies were given that are difficult to summarise. But I will not forget the joy of seeing everyone share their commitment, listen, take an interest in each other, and spontaneously live in trust. I knew few people, but I felt comfortable in the group. I was very touched by the simplicity with which several people who were experiencing personal difficulties, limiting their commitments, dared to share them. I particularly appreciate these sharing sessions where both religious and lay people come together. It seems to me that this is one of the strengths of the DHS Family inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Sister Jeanne (DHS)
On the evening of 29 August, after a meeting marked by simplicity and mutual trust, and attentive listening to each other’s life stories, my heart is filled with gratitude for being able to accompany groups of Associates who share with us, Daughters of the Holy Spirit, the path of fidelity to the Spirit in his works of mercy, a path opened by Mary Balavenne and Renée Burel, our founders.
By Bernard SCHOENHENZ. Published on 1 September 2025
