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.
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-Alpes region.
The Journey Through the Countryside
As we travelled, the beauty of the French countryside unfolded before our eyes. Rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming villages dotted the landscape, each adding to the sense of peace and tranquillity that seemed to grow with each passing mile. The conversation among my Jesuit friends was a blend of excited chatter and reflective silence, as we shared stories of our connection to St. John Vianney and the significance of this pilgrimage in our lives.
Arrival in Ars-sur-Formans
Upon arriving in Ars-sur-Formans, the first thing that struck us was the simplicity and charm of the town. It was easy to see how such a place could become the backdrop for the extraordinary life of St. John Vianney. The town seemed almost frozen in time, with its narrow streets, stone houses, and the gentle rhythm of village life.
Visiting the Shrine
The focal point of our visit was, of course, the Shrine of Saint John Vianney. As we approached the basilica, a sense of reverence and awe enveloped us. The basilica, though not grandiose, stood as a testament to the faith and dedication of the Curé of Ars. Its architecture was simple yet elegant, reflecting the humble spirit of the saint it honored.
We entered the basilica, and immediately, a profound sense of peace washed over us. The interior was adorned with beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of St. John Vianney. We spent some time in silent prayer, each of us lost in our thoughts and prayers, seeking the intercession of the saint who had inspired us for so long.
The Reliquary
One of the most moving parts of our visit was seeing the reliquary that contains the incorrupt heart of St. John Vianney. As I gazed upon the reliquary, I felt a deep connection to the saint and his unwavering faith. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of his life and work.
After spending time in the basilica, we explored the town further. We visited the small, modest presbytery where St. John Vianney lived and worked. It was incredible to see how such a humble abode became the epicenter of his tireless ministry. The simplicity of the presbytery was a stark contrast to the profound spiritual impact of his life.
Leaving Ars-sur-Formans, we carried with us the profound sense of peace and spiritual enrichment that only such a pilgrimage could provide. The visit to the Shrine of Saint John Vianney was a dream come true, a journey that deepened our faith and left an indelible mark on our hearts. The story of the Curé of Ars continues to inspire and remind us that God’s grace often shines brightest through the simplest and humblest of lives.
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