Église Jean XXIII

“A microcosm of the universal Church,” they called it. Égise Jean XXIII. That’s where we are now. It’s more than just a building. It’s a testament to a community, woven together by faith and a shared language. The story of Égise Jean XXIII begins long before its official establishment in 1971. It starts in 1956 with a small chaplaincy. Its purpose was simple: to cater to the spiritual needs of the growing English-speaking community in Geneva. Drawn by international business, organizations, and diplomatic missions, these individuals needed a place to connect with their faith. The chaplaincy served as their spiritual anchor. Over the years, this small group blossomed into a vibrant parish. A parish so diverse, it represented over 100 nationalities. They all shared a common language. English became the unifying thread. For many years, the parish resided at the Pope John XXIII Centre in Petit-Saconnex. Then in March 2013, it found a new home. The parish moved to St. Nicolas de Flüe Church on rue de Montbrillant. This move was significant. It doubled the space available. This allowed for more room for worship, ministries, religious education, and community gatherings. The church itself carries its own history. Designed by François Bouvier, Virgilio, and Jacques Malnati, St. Nicolas de Flüe Church was consecrated in 1967. It even hosted visits from Pope Paul VI in 1969 and Pope John Paul II in 1982. Originally home to a French-speaking parish, the church became the new home of Égise Jean XXIII. The adjoining Parish House, renovated in 2011-2012, offered additional space. It was inaugurated in June 2013 by Bishop Charles Morerod. This facility houses multi-purpose rooms, accommodation for priests, and office space. It’s a hub of activity. It supports the many functions of the parish. At Égise Jean XXIII, you’ll find a community. It’s a community that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences. United by faith and language. It’s a living embodiment of the universal church.