Dreaming of peace? Le Châtelard offers a unique escape near Lyon. It is more than just a building. It is a spiritual haven with a rich history.
Le Châtelard began as a bourgeois house. It was built in the late reign of the Sun King. The de Ruolz family, lords of Francheville, owned it for over two centuries. In 1929, the Society of Jesus acquired it. They established a “House of Spiritual Exercises.” Twenty years later, it became a recognized community. It was placed under the patronage of Claude La Colombière. He was a Jesuit priest known for his spiritual direction of Saint Marguerite-Marie Alacoque.
From its beginning, Le Châtelard welcomed everyone. This included laity and religious figures. The neighboring farm was part of the estate. It was in operation until 1975.
Le Châtelard is now an ecocentre. This transformation began in 2023. The Jesuit provincial entrusted Le Châtelard with a special mission. They wanted to translate ecological concerns into action. This involved leveraging the site’s rich biodiversity. They also drew upon Ignatian spirituality. The diverse talents of employees, Jesuits and volunteers were also used. About 2,500 people visit each year for retreats.
Several projects show this transition. These include studying the biodiversity of the area and planting hedges. They changed the food program. An “école de vie Laudato si’” was launched for students. Building renovations improved energy performance.
Le Châtelard is a Jesuit spiritual center. The Society of Jesus was founded by Saint Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. Today, there are nearly 14,000 Jesuits worldwide. About 3,300 are in Europe. Jesuits live in community. They undertake various educational, social and pastoral missions. They strive to integrate reflection, prayer and action. Their 15-year training prepares them. It makes them men of encounter and reconciliation. They work with others. They contribute to a more human world. They help everyone find God in all things.
Le Châtelard has two main buildings. They have a total capacity of 80 rooms. Each has an integrated bathroom. There are also twelve workspaces. Five dining rooms of different sizes are available. For prayer, Le Châtelard has a chapel. It also has four oratories. The Farm is independently managed. It hosts groups from church movements. It welcomes those with limited means. It is also accessible to people with reduced mobility. The Farm offers stunning views of the Monts d’Or.
Nestled in 36 hectares of greenery, Le Châtelard offers many hiking trails. These paths let you discover the mountainous landscapes. Since late 2023, Le Courtil de Lucile, a working farm, has been in the park. Partnerships and joint activities are regularly organized with the spiritual center.
Le Châtelard is an oasis of peace. It is a place to discover silence. It is a space for prayer, meditation and reflection. Le Châtelard is also a place to support those facing growth or hardship. Since 1929, Le Châtelard offers spiritual retreats in various formats. It provides weekends for couples and families. It promotes reflections on life questions. These are based on social realities. It also conducts training sessions.
Le Châtelard’s ecospiritual focus is innovative. It combines faith with environmental responsibility. This approach makes Le Châtelard a unique and vital center. It supports personal and planetary well-being. The convergence of Jesuit values and ecological action creates a transformative experience.
The spirit of Le Châtelard remains. It offers solace and insight. It fosters a deeper connection with nature and the divine.