“Another church?” you might ask. Yes but the Chiesa di San Pier Giuliano Eymard has a unique story. San Pier Giuliano Eymard stands as a testament to faith. It also represents community in the Baggio district of Milan.
This church’s history began in the 1980s. The Quartiere Valsesia was a new area needing a spiritual center. San Pier Giuliano Eymard became that heart. Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini consecrated it on October 1 1989.
Interestingly the church started as a “church-baracca”. This meant a prefabricated structure served as its first worship space. It was originally a warehouse. This makeshift church met the spiritual needs of the growing neighborhood.
In 1982 an arson attempt threatened the church. Despite this setback the community persevered. In 1983 the municipality approved a new church building. Construction finished in 1986. Even before completion it was used.
The architectural design of San Pier Giuliano Eymard is simple yet striking. The church has a square plan. A staircase connects it to the courtyard. Light marble covers the exterior walls. Instead of windows light enters through skylights. These skylights run along the walls. A canopy marks the main entrance.
Inside the church has a coffered ceiling made of concrete. Mosaics adorn the interior columns. The presbytery features the altar and ambo. Two white marble sculptures stand to the sides. One depicts the Madonna of the Blessed Sacrament. The other represents San Pier Giuliano Eymard himself.
Who was this saint? Pier Giuliano Eymard was a French religious figure. He founded the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament. He also founded the Handmaids of the Blessed Sacrament. Born in 1811 he followed his religious calling against his father’s wishes. He became a priest in 1834. Later he joined the Marists in 1839.
Eymard’s devotion to the Eucharist shaped his life. He established a community focused on Eucharistic adoration. Members alternated between active ministry and contemplation. Pope John XXIII canonized him in 1962. His liturgical feast is celebrated on August 2.
San Pier Giuliano Eymard in Milan is more than bricks and mortar. It embodies faith resilience and community spirit. It started as a simple warehouse. It transformed into a beacon of hope. It continues to serve the spiritual needs of Baggio. Take a moment to appreciate its simple beauty. Reflect on the life of San Pier Giuliano Eymard.