NOTRE-DAME-DE-LA GARDE Home Page An Astonishing Architectural Style... ...And Astonishing Particularities Our Lady of the Guard in numbers "Our Good Mother" from all directions Let's go Inside... A story of abiding tenacity living Faith To Welcome You FORUM A few books

* Two communities of the religious life: - The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary have been at Our Lady of the Guard since 1892 (the Congregation was founded in 1877). That was the era when missionaries who were setting off for Africa or Asia went through Marseilles and stopped at Our Lady of the Guard to ask her to go along with them on their missions. The Franciscans still fulfill their mission: welcoming everyone, paying attention to the littlest ones, giving advice as to what to read, taking general pastoral care of the Basilica. They are responsible for the Eucharistic Center, a place of silent prayer in their chapel. - The Missionary Workers of the Donum Dei family belong to the Carmelite Third Order. Since July 1993 they have operated the cafeteria-restaurant, "Living Water". Just like the other Living Water restaurants all over the world (established on five continents) they welcome everyone and give witness to their faith; they are a little like "Carmel in the world". Groups may book tables for breakfast or lunch (within the limits of space available, up to 300 people). They also participate in the general pastoral animation of the Basilica. * A team of chaplans, both diocesan and religious priests, work alongside the Rector of the Basilica. Some are (nearly) full time, others devote a half-day each week to provide a welcoming presence. Both pilgrims and visitors can always find them in the enclosed chapel in the crypt.