Epidemic in the history of the Congregation
What would Marie Rivier do?
Epidemics in the History of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary
Marie Rivier from Bourg, to Sr M-Caroline in Bordeaux on July 28, 1835 :
“My dearest daughter, you might be frightened to hear that cholera is so widespread in the South of France. Alas! it is wreaking terrible havoc, in Toulon, Marseille, Aix; it has begun again in Arles and has appeared in many other places. But, thanks be to God, not here yet. Pray with fervor to our God that he will continue this favor and preserve all our poor sisters of the South, especially Mèze, Salon, Gréoulx, etc. How irritated the Lord is and how terrible this scourge is! In Marseilles, the soldiers of the garrison offered to walk the procession barefoot, as they prepared to carry Notre Dame de la Gard. “(Letter n°1178(2)-6).
Marie Rivier to Sr Zozime in Bordeaux St Martial, August 7, 1835 :
“We pray a lot for the conversion of the world and ask our God to preserve us from the scourge of cholera, fiat! “(Letter n° 1243(40)-7).
Exchange of letters and news – tears and affliction
Long suffering of the sick and agony – parish priest and sister victims
People are fleeing, so are children – deserted cities
The Sisters take refuge in the homes of parishioners or notable ‘protectors’.
they are strong, reasonable, courageous and generous
They are given the order to accept help, money: to be reimbursed later
As long as the epidemic lasts…
Now, the cholera is close to us! Serious concern for those in charge.
Alais is filled with foreigners … surely cholera will be declared there!
The Parish Priest, Mr. Mayor, Mr. Baron, manager of the baths of Gréoux,
oblige the sisters to go to the baths for a change of air.
Sharing – consolation and encouragement: they opened their purses to them.
The sisters are dedicated to the service of people who have cholera
Taking care of others: children, those with cholera, little orphan girl.
