Dreams of a “Good Shepherd” once took root here. Today we stand before the \u00c9glise du Bon-Pasteur. It is a church with a story of faith, community and resilience.
The \u00c9glise du Bon-Pasteur’s tale begins long before its current structure. A small community formed around Fathers Boniface Dandrade Denis and Jean-Louis Truilhard. In 1732 these men dedicated themselves to the Sacred Heart.
A chapel was built on land purchased in 1733 by Father Antoine Granier. It was near Rue d’Aix. Bishop Henri de Belsunce approved a hospice for abandoned children. He also approved a relief effort. The first chapel quickly became too small. It was demolished. The cornerstone of a second building was laid in 1737.
A seminary was established in 1747. That same year, the first election of the community’s superior took place. But the site was completely demolished in 1794. The community was scattered.
The Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 des pr\u00eatres du Bon Pasteur faced challenges. Bishop Fortun\u00e9 de Mazenod recognized it in 1825. Yet, he suppressed it six years later. In 1869 Bishop Charles Place authorized two former members to revive the society. These were Fathers Fran\u00e7ois Pontier and Louis Corr\u00e9ard.
Father Jacques Brassevin purchased land on Boulevard National. He intended it for the Society a school a youth center and a parish church. On July 2 1872 Bishop Charles Place blessed the church. It was dedicated under the title of Bon Pasteur. Father Brassevin established the Cercles catholiques d’ouvriers there. He became its first chaplain.
Inside these walls lies more than meets the eye. The archives of the Soci\u00e9t\u00e9 des Pr\u00eatres du Sacr\u00e9-C\u0153ur du Bon Pasteur are preserved here. They offer a glimpse into the past. These documents include records of the workers’ circle.
Also the personal papers of Abb\u00e9 Gabriel Reimonet can be found. He was an opponent of the Revolution. He emigrated to Italy in 1792. He returned to Marseille in 1793. His ministry was very active until his death in 1803.
Today the \u00c9glise du Bon-Pasteur continues its mission. Masses are held here regularly. On Sundays you can attend mass at 10:30 AM. During the week mass is celebrated Tuesday through Friday at 8:30 AM. On Saturdays mass begins at 9:00 AM.
The \u00c9glise du Bon-Pasteur also offers adoration and confession. These services are held on Wednesdays from 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM. The pastoral team includes Father Guillaume Lepoutre and Father Livio Pegoraro. The church maintains ties with the J\u00e9suites.
As we stand here before the \u00c9glise du Bon-Pasteur let us reflect. Let’s reflect on its history. Consider the dedication of those who built and rebuilt it. Remember its role in the community. It is more than just a building. It is a symbol of faith and hope. It continues to serve the people of Marseille.