Nestled in the heart of the Vexin regional nature park, the picturesque commune of La Roche-Guyon offers a charming escape from the bustling streets of Paris. Our journey to this historical gem, which unfolded with the gentle cadence of the French countryside, was nothing short of enchanting. The trip, taken alongside my fellow faculty members and students from Centre Sèvres, Jesuit Faculty of Paris, was a delightful exploration of history, culture, and the simple pleasures of rural life. Setting Out from Paris We began our day early, leaving the vibrant city of Paris behind as we set off towards the tranquil village of La Roche-Guyon. The drive itself was a pleasure, with the urban landscape gradually giving way to rolling hills, lush meadows, and the timeless charm of the French countryside. The anticipation of discovering a place steeped in history kept us all eagerly looking forward to the day ahead. Arriving in La Roche-Guyon As we arrived in La Roche-Guyon, the first sight that g
My journey to the Shrine of Saint John Vianney in Ars-sur-Formans was a pilgrimage long in the making. As a child, I fondly remember celebrating the feast of St. John Vianney in our native parish, the humble and holy Curé of Ars, whose life exemplifies how God often uses the simple and underrated to confound the wise. This long-cherished dream finally came to fruition in 2013, when I, along with my Jesuit friends, embarked on a memorable journey from Lyon to Ars, a quaint town about 20 miles north of Lyon. Departure from Lyon We began our journey early in the morning, filled with anticipation and spiritual excitement. The city of Lyon, with its rich history and vibrant culture, served as the perfect starting point for our pilgrimage. We boarded a comfortable minibus, our hearts and minds already attuned to the spiritual significance of our destination. The landscape gradually changed from the bustling urban environment of Lyon to the serene and picturesque countryside of the Rhône-Alpe