Église de Jésus-Christ des saints des derniers jours

Do you feel that subtle shift in the air, a blend of the modern and the timeless? Here, before the Église de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours, the past and present intertwine. This isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to a faith that journeyed across continents, found a home in Lyon, and continues to shape lives. The Église de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours, often called the Mormon Church, arrived in France in the mid-19th century. Its journey began with John Taylor, who later became a prominent leader in the church. He arrived in Boulogne-sur-Mer in 1850, receiving permission to preach from the mayor himself. But the political climate, always turbulent, forced Taylor to leave France in 1852. He left behind a significant legacy: the first French translation of the Book of Mormon. The church’s presence in Lyon is more recent. With the relocation of the mission headquarters from Geneva to Lyon in 2012, the city became a hub for Mormon activities in southern France and French-speaking Switzerland. This brought new energy to the existing congregations in Gerland, Villeurbanne, and Ecully. The Église de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours in Lyon isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant center for community events. From concerts during the Fête de la Musique to theatrical performances, the church opens its doors to everyone. They even offer free English and French courses at the Institut de Religion. The church’s growth in Lyon is evident in its acquisition of land near the Ecully parish. They plan to build a new Institut de Religion in the 8th arrondissement, funded in part by tithing from members and support from the national church. This shows the growing presence and influence of the Église de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours in the city. So, as you stand before this building, remember its journey. It’s a story of resilience, growth, and community, a story etched into the very fabric of Lyon.