Bread for breakfast!
In a continent far, far away, in the land of bread and blue cheese deep in Mother Rivier country the grade 11 students continue their march in her footsteps. In Montpezat we travelled the path, covered in dog dodo, on the way to the "desert ". We visited the church of Marie Rivier's baptism and followed the stations of the cross up a small hill to reach the top for a magnificent view of the surrounding French countryside.
A short walk from there took us to the home where Marie was born where we happened to meet one of the Rivier descendants. We followed the roman road she followed on her way to the "desert" to pray, the backyard of the family home where Marie gathered the children is now surprisingly occupied by a swimming pool.
We then loaded the bus and headed to Thueyts where we had lunch in the playground of the school there. After lunch we toured the convent where we saw the chapel where she prayed, the kitchen location of the wheat bin miracle, and her bedroom.
Returning to Viviers! we followed a very narrow, winding road through the Gorges d'Ardeches. Nobody even threw up! The bus we were on for the day was too small so three of the men got to ride with a sister in a Persio 106 (thanks Michaelin).
After returning to Viviers we explored the old monastery/jail/seminary that we were staying at. We toured the cathedral here that Sacred Heart in PA is modelled after. One of the bishops here was named Bishop Pascal.
Even though most students napped on the bus, Sr. Mary wanted everyone in bed by 9:30. Bonsoir.
Wednesday, April 23
This morning we travelled to Bourg St-Andeol. The weather was beautiful, sunny and very hot (27) ; perfect tanning weather. First we explored the open-air market that was full of many things from food to fashion. As the market closes at noon we went to the convent for lunch. After a delicious meal of sliced pork and fries, Sr. Mary gave us a tour of the convent, starting with the garden where enjoyed the fountain and the plush greenery. The highlight of the tour today was the chapel, which was magnificent. Even better though, was being blessed with the chance to see the bones of Blessed Marie Rivier which is a very rare opportunity and hasn't been done in many years. After the tour Mr. Sander led us on a walk around town where we saw the place where the ship sailed from to carry the sisters to Canada. Along this walk, we went into a church with very high ceilings where some of our choir members sang "Look at the Cross". They sounded amazing! The last thing we saw was an old Roman bath house. On our way back to the convent Sr. Mary very kindly bought us all ice cream.
We returned to Viviers where while we were packing we were startled with a very loud thunderstorm. Overall, we had a great day full of many treats that we are all very thankful for.
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