Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus

“A tapestry woven in shades of grey?” I pondered aloud. “How curious.” We stand before the Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus et de la Sainte-Face. It’s a surprising structure. It resembles a simple farm building more than a chapel. Yet, this unassuming exterior hides a treasure trove of modern religious art. The Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus, nestled in the Hempenpont district of Hem, was born from the vision of a textile industrialist, Philippe Leclercq. He wished to build a chapel near his home in this working-class area. Construction began in 1956, amidst the post-war reconstruction efforts sweeping France. Cardinal Achille Liénart, Bishop of Lille, consecrated the chapel in 1958. The Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and a unique blend of architectural and artistic styles. The Swiss architect, Hermann Baur, a student of Le Corbusier, designed the building. Artist Alfred Manessier created the stunning stained-glass windows. The chapel seamlessly integrates into a former Flemish farm courtyard, forming a tranquil beguinage. The building’s shape evokes a barn or a creche, a humble nod to its surroundings. A freestanding campanile stands slightly back from the entrance, its awning adorned with a mosaic. Inside the Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus, the artistry continues. The stained glass windows are not mere decorations. They tell a story. They depict the life of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, using color to convey her experiences: red for suffering, violet for spirituality, yellow and white for light, and blue for life. Look closely at the west wall’s “Tree of Life” window. Notice how its stylized branches echo the espaliered plane trees outside. Another remarkable piece is the tapestry depicting the Holy Face. It’s based on a design by Georges Rouault and woven in subtle greys by Plasse Le Caisne in the Aubusson workshops. Sculptor Eugène Dodeigne also contributed, crafting the statue of Saint Thérèse, the altar, tabernacle, iron cross, and baptismal font. Interestingly, the altar was designed for both traditional and modern celebrations, anticipating the liturgical changes of Vatican II before they occurred. The Chapelle Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant-Jésus was listed as a historical monument in 1995. This recognition solidifies its place as a significant example of contemporary religious art, a quiet space for meditation and prayer.