Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc

Gazing upon Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc, imagine the fervent hope that fueled its creation. In 1933, prominent Lyon families, firms, and devoted individuals, known as “Friends of Joan of Arc,” united to build this sanctuary. They envisioned not just a church, but a complex encompassing a presbytery and a community center, all dedicated to their patron saint. Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc stands as a testament to their collective vision. The church itself is a study in understated elegance. Its simple facade belies a unique feature: a cement bell tower crowned with a wrought-iron cross. This striking silhouette marks its place in the Lyon skyline. Did you know that Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc played a pioneering role in broadcast history? In 1938, it hosted the very first radio-broadcasted mass, a milestone in connecting faith and technology. A statue of Joan of Arc graces the church’s entrance. This piece carries a tale of its own. Originally commissioned by a priest who couldn’t afford the final payment, it was ultimately acquired by Cardinal Couilllé. The statue briefly resided at the Grand Séminaire de Francheville, but its modern style clashed with the traditional setting, earning it the unflattering nickname “La Pétroleuse.” Eventually, it found its rightful home at Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc, a fitting tribute to the Maid of Orléans. In 1997, the church underwent renovations, ensuring its continued service to the community. Today, Église Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc stands as a beacon of faith, a testament to the enduring power of community, and a unique blend of history and modernity in the heart of Lyon.