The Motherhouse

The location of the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Divine Providence at St. Jean de Bassel in France has a long history, dating back to the 7th century when a chapel dedicated to a holy hermit, Bassolus, was built there and given the name “Bassel”. History also records that the Order of the Knights of Malta were established there in 1446 in the “Monastery of St. John of Malta”. Later the Knights named the place “St. Jean de Bassel.”

In 1826 property at St. Jean de Bassel, with several small buildings, was acquired by The Congregation of Divine Providence to accommodate a growing number of candidates. In 1834 construction was begun on some of the buildings now recognized as the “Motherhouse”. The present Motherhouse chapel was begun in 1868 and dedicated in 1872.

The village of St. Jean de Bassel is situated in the Lorraine area of France and centrally located between the major cities of Metz, Nancy and Strasbourg.

Presently the Motherhouse is known as a place of hospitality. Sisters of Divine Providence from Madagascar, the U.S. and Europe are always welcomed at their Motherhouse.

“Friends of Providence” welcome all those seeking calm, silence, and retreat.

“Friends of Nature” welcome students to discover the richness of nature and the environment.