In 1863, a group of the Little Sisters of the Poor arrived in Barcelona to establish their first foundation in Spain. They were warmly welcomed by the Catalans, who greatly needed a home for the many unfortunate elderly people abandoned in large cities.
As was customary, the home was placed under the protection of Saint Joseph, whom the Sisters call the House's Provider. At first, because of a lack of space, they admitted only elderly women. But then, one fine day, Saint Joseph brought them their first elderly man. He was an eighty-year-old who presented himself and said to one of the Sisters:
“I have come here to be admitted.”
“That is impossible,” replied the Superior. “We are not yet able to receive any men.”
“Very well, but there is no other solution; I shall stay here all the same.”
“What is your name, sir?”
“My name is Joseph.”
This name caught the Sisters' attention; moreover, it was a day dedicated to Saint Joseph. There was no other choice: they would receive him in the name of Saint Joseph.
The old man possessed nothing but rags and was covered with insects. They had no men's clothing available. Calling two Sisters, the Superior said to them:
“Go out and look for some clothes while we wash and comb his hair.”
During this brief conversation, the bell at the entrance rang. It was an unknown lady who handed over a parcel and left without saying a word. They opened it and, to their great surprise, discovered a complete outfit of men's clothing.
The poor old man was overcome with joy. The Sisters were no less delighted, for they understood that Saint Joseph was inviting them to expand their charitable mission.
The home grew steadily and peacefully, and within a few years it housed more than two hundred elderly people, who never lacked their daily bread or the loving care of the good Sisters.
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