The Fraternité de Laïques Missionnaires (FLM) which translates to fraternity of lay missionaries in Lyon had the privilege of hosting SMA (Société des Missions Africaines) lay missionaries from various countries, including the USA, based in Benin, the United Kingdom, based in Togo, Poland, and four esteemed guests from Spain. Over the weekend, a series of events unfolded, providing a vivid showcase of the region's cultural and historical treasures.
On Saturday, the distinguished guests were granted an exclusive preview of the recently refurbished SMA house, MIM (Maison Internationale de la Mission). This venerable residence, steeped in history and spiritual significance, offered a perfect prologue to the cultural odyssey that lay ahead. Later that evening, they were treated to a sumptuous dinner at a renowned creperie, immersing themselves in Lyon's culinary excellence.
Sunday marked the commencement of a profound spiritual journey as our visitors set out for Taizé, where they participated in Mass alongside a congregation of over 1700 young people, a majority of whom hailed from the diocese of Pontoise. This assembly of the faithful underscored the universal appeal of the Catholic faith and the profound impact of communal worship.
In the afternoon, the group embarked on a captivating historical expedition to Cluny, a site steeped in antiquity. During its zenith around 1100, Cluny and its monastic order, the Cluniac order, wielded authority over 10,000 monks and 1,500 monasteries across Europe. At the height of its glory, the church on the premises was the largest in the world, a distinction it maintained until the construction of St-Pierre-de Rome in the 17th century. However, the turbulence of the French Revolution led to the suppression of the order in France in 1790, and the Cluny monastery faced near-total demolition in 1810. Subsequently, it served as a quarry until 1823.
Following a convivial repast at Café du Centre "Chez Sissis," the group embarked on a hiking excursion to Roche de Solutré, commencing their journey from the Roche parking lot. The ascent to Roche de Solutré, both invigorating and visually rewarding, encompassed a 4-kilometer circuit with a 100-meter vertical drop, culminating at an altitude of 493 meters. From the summit, our visitors savored a breathtaking panorama of the Pouilly-Fuissé vineyards, the picturesque surrounding villages, and even the distant Mont Blanc.
In the evening, the affable camaraderie of the FLM members shone brightly as they hosted our guests for a delightful dinner, strengthening the bonds of friendship.
Monday witnessed the culmination of this enlightening journey, as the group explored the historic quarters of Old Lyon. This educational foray extended its invitation to the SMA fathers, the entire SMA family, which includes the Our Lady of Apostles sisters, and the Missionaires Catechistes du Sacre-Coeur, as well as some residents of Cartiers. The tour included a visit to St. Irénée Church and led to the iconic Fouvière, passing by the ancient Roman theater, where the guests encountered a plaque commemorating the dedication of the SMA to Our Lady of Fouvière.
After this immersive exploration, a well-deserved picnic and a quiz offered an opportunity to reflect on the discoveries made thus far. The visit would not have been complete without a visit to the house of Pauline Jaricot, the founder of the Pontifical Missionary Society, who was beatified on May 22, 2022, in Lyon. The journey culminated at the Chapel of Saint Philomène with a beautiful session of thanksgiving prayers and a solemn send-off as our guests prepared to continue their missionary endeavors.
This triduum of cultural immersion, spiritual reflection, and communal bonding has undoubtedly left an indelible impression on our guests and has enriched the tapestry of the Fraternité de Laïques Missionnaires (FLM) in Lyon. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of intercultural exchange and the universal language of faith that unites us all.
By Dominic Wabwireh
