Tucked away in the Mamilla neighborhood, Jerusalem's commercial area, the Hospice of St. Vincent de Paul houses a group of women religious of the "Daughters of Charity" congregation since 1886. The congregation was founded in France in 1633 by St. Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac: it is dedicated to the service of the sick and the corporal and spiritual service of the poor. Sister SIMONE Superior of the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity "St. Vincent de Paul was first and foremost a priest and an advisor to the king: he went to villages, to parishes, to celebrate Mass. He saw abandoned children and the poor in the streets. Together with Saint Louise de Marillac, he decided to found an institution that would take care of them. Gradually he thought of founding a congregation of Sisters of Charity so that this service could continue." Following the charism of St. Vincent de Paul, encapsulated in the words "The Charity of Christ impels us," the congregation has spread throughout the world. Today, the Daughters of Charity are present in 96 countries. When the community was founded in Jerusalem, the sisters cared for orphans, people with social difficulties, deaf-mutes and abandoned children. As needs have changed, the community has evolved and today operates a day care center that welcomes approximately 200 children of 8 different nationalities and adults with disabilities. Despite the difficulties, Sister Simone lives her faith with joy! Sister SIMONE Superior of the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity "It brings me joy, I'll tell you frankly: I am always at peace, despite the moments of difficulty that obviously exist. We have given ourselves to God." Read More