Evolution of the RHSJ mode of governance
From its beginning, the Congregation underwent a significant change in its mode of governance. At the instigation of the Bishop of Angers, Monsignor Henry Arnault, the “Daughters of Saint Joseph” founded by Jérôme Le Royer became cloistered nuns, taking solemn vows, under the name of Religious Hospitallers of Saint Joseph. Each foundation would, consequently, be autonomous, as were the great monastic orders. Nearly three centuries passed under this regime of enclosure and solemn vows. At the beginning of the 20th century, change became necessary.
Creation of a Generalate
The first mention of a generalate in the Congregation dates back to 1919. In 1926, in New Brunswick, Mother Audet suggested the creation of an Acadian generalate. In 1937, the houses of France also considered the idea of a generalate. In 1938, a meeting in Kingston brought together the superiors and delegates from the twelve houses of the institute. They hoped for an assembly of all the superiors of America to be held in Montreal. This wish was realized on April 13, 1939, and the principle of a generalate was accepted.
The unity of the congregation began to become a reality through the creation of successive generalates.
- 1st Generalate of the RHSJ in New Brunswick, September 12, 1946
- 2nd Generalate of the RHSJ in Montreal, March 5, 1949
- 3rd Generalate of the RHSJ in Kingston, October 14, 1949
- Merger of the three Generalates, March 19, 1953
- Union of France to the Generalate of America, May 13, 1965
