Four cloches ring out. They call the faithful to \u00c9glise Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours. This church stands in Lyon’s Montchat district. It is a testament to faith and architectural ambition.
\u00c9glise Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours history began in 1873. The parish of Montchat was created. A temporary chapel was established. Father Michallet wanted a permanent church. He envisioned it in the neo-Roman style. The Richard-Viton family donated the land. Architects Morel and Bethenod led the construction.
Construction started in 1874. The first section opened on June 13 1875. This included the choir and two bays. Work resumed in 1891. The church was consecrated on September 1 1894. Bishop Dubuis officiated. The tribune organ was inaugurated on March 19 1899.
Look at the church’s facade. Notice the steeple. It houses four bells. Two bells date back to 1874. The other two were added in 1893. They marked the completion of the work.
The central nave is Romanesque. It is flanked by two smaller side aisles. The church has five bays. Each bay in the main nave has a cupola.
Inside \u00c9glise Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours, the stained glass windows captivate. Master glassmaker Duf\u00eatre created almost all of them. Victor H\u00f6ner from Nancy made the Sainte Eug\u00e9nie window.
The right chapel honors the Sacred Heart. A statue by Fabisch tops the altar. The stained glass shows Jesus and the Samaritan woman Saint John the Sacred Heart and Saint Marguerite-Marie.
The left chapel is dedicated to Saint Joseph. A statue by Pagny adorns the altar. The stained glass depicts the Marriage of the Virgin the Holy Family and the Death of Saint Joseph.
The stone Stations of the Cross are remarkable. Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric Bayet-Biot created them. He also sculpted the statue of Notre Dame du Bon Secours above the porch.
Outside the tympanum above the portal is special. It shows Jesus blessing children. It also displays the church’s name. The date of completion 1893 is there too.
\u00c9glise Notre-Dame-du-Bon-Secours is more than bricks and mortar. It is a spiritual anchor. It serves the community. It stands as a symbol of hope. Its art and architecture inspire. The faithful gather. They seek solace and inspiration within its walls. The church is part of the Visitation parish. It includes Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc church. Together they form a vibrant faith community in Lyon.