The Village of St. Joseph in southwest Atlanta is a far cry from St. Joseph’s Home in Washington, Ga.

Children have been the only thing missing from the modern complex on Butner Road. They began to arrive Sunday to occupy the new cottages, leaving behind the 35-year-old building at Washington.

The small boys and girls did not say much as they were shown to their new, bright quarters, but the excitement of a new home registered in their faces and eyes. “Joe-Joe,” the affable watchdog, greeted the children as they arrived on the hot, summer afternoon.

A second group of children will arrive this Sunday in time for a 4:30 Mass to be celebrated by Archbishop Paul J. Hallinan. A buffet for members of the village’s board is planned after the Mass.

Sister John Frances, C.S.J., administrator, did not conceal her delight with the new village which has a capacity of 62 boys and girls.

The village will also unite sisters and brothers. In the past, the boys were at Washington and the girls in Savannah. The administrator said the boys will range in ages from 6 to 14, while the girls will be form 6 through high-school age.

The village will be dedicated Sept. 17 with Bishop Leo Byrne of Wichita Falls as the principal speaker. He is the brother of Sister Leo Christopher C.S.J., a staff member.