A Brief History of the Community

The community was founded in 1960 by the twin brothers, Peter and Michael Ball. They had the vision of a community who lived under the traditional vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience, whilst living in small groups and going out to work in ordinary jobs. The first members were men and mostly teachers, but as the community developed it became apparent that people from all walks of life shared the vision. After training with the Kelham Community, the Brothers moved to a large house in Stroud, which they rented from the local council. The house was situated in Stratford Park, a public park with a lake.

In 1966 a conference was held near Stroud to discuss the possibility of having women members. The first group began their life together in Stroud but soon moved to London. Several Sisters came and went, working in a variety of jobs. In common with all the other houses the Sisters had their own small Chapel. They were grateful to the local clergy, including a Bishop and an Archdeacon, who assured them of several celebrations of the Eucharist each week. Two of the Sisters worked for a time in Notting Hill, and a third at Hammersmith Hospital.

Each house was autonomous with a Prior or Prioress, and regular "House Chapters" to discuss the day-to-day running of the house. The whole community met for Chapter about three times a year. The vow of poverty means that all a Brother or Sister earns went into a general fund of the house, which then provides for the necessities of life. The members also take a vow of celibacy and obedience. Our rule of life is a modern interpretation of the Benedictine Rule. Each day the Community gathers for the Offices of Morning and Evening Prayer and Compline and if possible the Eucharist.

During the last few years, Cécile and Jean lived in Wandsworth. Jean worked as a Health Visitor in Roehampton and Cécile as a Headmistress in Streatham. Over the years, a camping pilgrimage to Lourdes began a series of visits to France and a liking for the country. When we retired we decided to have a "house of welcome", and with the help and encouragement of friends we found ourselves at Prasada.