In the heart of Levallois-Perret, a suburb northwest of Paris, stands the awe-inspiring Church of St Odile (église Sainte-Odile), a beacon of architectural brilliance and spiritual solace. This magnificent edifice, dedicated to St. Odile, the patron saint of Alsace, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the intricate blend of history, art, and faith.
The Church of St Odile's story begins in the early 1930s when Jean Verdier and Edmond Loutil envisioned a new parish church to serve the burgeoning community. The first stone was laid on March 24, 1935, under the watchful eye of Cardinal Verdier. The construction, however, was interrupted by the tumultuous events of World War II, during which the church's precious stained glass panels were carefully stored away for safekeeping. After the war, construction resumed, and on November 17, 1946, the church was blessed by Cardinal Suhard in a grand ceremony attended by the Bishop of Strasbourg, Jean-Julien Weber.
The Church of St Odile is an architectural gem designed by Jacques Barge, who drew inspiration from Byzantine architecture. The church's structure, made of reinforced concrete, is adorned with pink sandstone bricks from Saverne, the same material used in the Strasbourg Cathedral. The most striking feature of the church is its towering bell tower, which rises to an impressive height of 72 meters, making it the tallest church tower in Paris. The tower is crowned with a copper rooster atop a cross, crafted by Robert Barriot, symbolizing vigilance and faith.
One of the church's unique features is its carillon, housed within the decagonal bell tower. The carillon consists of twenty-three bells, all cast by the renowned Paccard foundry just before the outbreak of World War II. During the German occupation, these bells were buried near Chartres to protect them from being melted down for war materials. Today, the carillon is the only manually operated one in Paris, and its melodious chimes can be heard during religious festivals and on certain Sundays, adding a musical charm to the church's serene atmosphere.
As you approach the Church of St Odile, you are greeted by the grand portal, a masterpiece created by Anne-Marie Roux-Colas. The portal depicts St. Odile being welcomed into heaven by the Virgin Mary, who presents her to Christ, the eternal priest. Surrounding this central scene are angels holding a book and a model of the first church built on Mont Sainte-Odile, symbolizing the saint's monastic rule and her legacy. The inscription around the scene reads, Veni Odilia Sponsa Christi accipe coronam quam tibi Dominus praeparavit in aeternum (Come, Odile, bride of Christ, receive the crown that the Lord has prepared for you for eternity).
The interior of the Church of St Odile is a feast for the eyes, with contributions from several renowned artists. Anne-Marie Roux-Colas also sculpted the tympanum and the capitals representing the four evangelists and the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus. François Décorchemont created three monumental stained glass windows, covering a total area of approximately 300 square meters. These windows depict scenes such as the Archangel Michael with various saints, the life of St. Odile, and the Archangel Raphael with other saints. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of these windows bring the church's interior to life, casting a kaleidoscope of light and color across the space.
The main altar, crafted by Auguste Labouret, is a stunning piece made of glass, mosaics, and enamels, featuring two peacocks, symbols of immortality. The baptismal font, completed in 1985 by Gérard Ambroselli, includes a depiction of a stag drinking, referencing Psalm 42. The retable, another significant feature, is the work of Robert Barriot and is supported by twelve columns representing the apostles. It depicts the twenty-four elders of the Apocalypse and the seven churches, with God the Father appearing above the Divine Lamb at the center.
The church's organ, built in 1950 by Rochesson-Beuchet-Debierre, is an impressive instrument with 25 stops across two keyboards and a pedalboard. This organ, with its rich and resonant tones, enhances the church's liturgical services and is a testament to the church's commitment to musical excellence.
The Church of St Odile is not just a historical monument; it is a vibrant community hub that continues to serve its parishioners. The church offers regular Masses in both the ordinary and extraordinary forms of the Roman Rite, catering to a diverse congregation. Since 1988, it has also been a center for the Tridentine Mass, attracting worshippers from across the region.
In conclusion, the Church of St Odile is a remarkable blend of history, art, and faith. Its towering bell tower, stunning stained glass windows, and rich liturgical life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Levallois-Perret or the greater Paris area. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Church of St Odile offers a profound and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
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