Whispers of peace echo within these grounds of Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne. This small town located southwest of Paris holds a significant place in religious history. Let’s explore why Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne is more than just a charming French village.
Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne became a haven for Father Eymard. He was the founder of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation. In 1866, the Congregation acquired property here. It sought a novitiate site and a place for prayer. Eymard was plagued by ill health and administrative burdens. Saint-Maurice offered him solace in his final years.
Imagine Eymard arriving here. He sought refuge from the chaos of his daily life. He needed a space for contemplation and spiritual renewal. Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne offered just that a sanctuary.
In a letter, Eymard described the property as a stroke of Providence. It had everything they needed. There were almost six acres of enclosed land. The house was in good condition, providing 25 rooms. It even had a suitable chapel. This was a perfect place.
The novitiate officially opened at Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne on Christmas in 1866. Fourteen novices moved from Paris under the guidance of Father Michel Chanuet. Saint-Maurice remained under the Congregation’s ownership until 1880. This place was a training ground for future members of the order.
Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne played a role in the development of a key Marian title. Eymard made a personal retreat here in 1868. During this time, he wrote extensively about his deepest thoughts. It was on May 1, 1868 that he is said to have first used the title Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament. But there is evidence he used the title earlier.
Some scholars suggest that Eymard initially used the term Our Lady of the Cenacle. This refers to the upper room where the Last Supper took place. Father Raymond de Cuers might have preferred Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament. After Eymard’s death, Albert Tesnière promoted this title. The Catholic Church eventually made it official.
The Blessed Sacrament Congregation wanted to bury Eymard at Saint-Maurice. However, his sisters and the people of La Mure wished for a local burial. Several Congregation members are buried in the local cemetery including Father Raymond de Cuers.
Today the Congregation’s former property is privately owned. It is not open to the public. But you can visit the Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne cemetery. It is located on Rue de l’Égalité. It is about 250 meters south of the town center. Here you can pay respects to Father de Cuers and other early members.
Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne offers a glimpse into the life of Saint Eymard. It shows the early days of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation. Though the property is private, its legacy remains. Remember Saint-Maurice-Montcouronne. It is a place of peace and contemplation. It shaped the spiritual journey of a significant religious figure.