FIRST STEPS IN LYON: A RICH AND FRATERNAL EXPERIENCE
My arrival in Lyon in September 2025 was marked by a warm welcome: Fr. Roger Lordong had come to meet me at Lyon Perrache train station, a simple yet deeply fraternal gesture that set the tone for this new stage in my life as a Marist missionary. Community life at Rue Sala is gradually taking shape. Little by little, bonds have been forged through shared meals, conversations and moments of prayer. The community also knows how to celebrate life’s simple joys: several birthdays, including mine in September and Roger’s in February, convivial moments that strengthen our brotherhood; several significant community events: a gathering at Rue Sala and two others with the wider Neylière community, the last of which was hosted by the SMSM Sisters. These meetings have been valuable opportunities to discuss our mission and to better understand our place within our commitment. Furthermore, I am continuing my studies in educational sciences with the aim of becoming a primary school teacher. Currently on a supervised teaching placement in Bellecombe, I am gaining practical experience of the profession. I am happy to be living in this intergenerational and international community, which is home to four different nationalities. Everyone contributes, and I am learning a great deal from the older members. It is a deeply enriching experience.
Christian Ngoura, sm
A NEW BEGINNING FILLED WITH JOY AND CONFIDENCE
I give thanks to God for allowing me to join the community of Notre Dame de France in London on 28 February, after a long wait to obtain my visa. I received a very warm welcome there, which filled my heart with joy and immediately helped me feel at home. For over a month now, I have been gradually discovering this parish, which I regard as a true school of Christian life and apostolic service. Every day, I learn to love more deeply and to serve with simplicity and openness. I am settling in little by little, through the various ministries and encounters that nourish my faith and help me grow as a person—humanly, spiritually, culturally and pastorally. I am touched by the dynamism, openness and depth of faith of this community, which is a precious place for me. I also hold dear in my heart the memory of Father Hubert, who was called to God before my arrival. His witness remains alive amongst us. The spring that has begun reflects what I am experiencing inwardly: a renewal, a growing hope and a heart that opens and remains optimistic. I continue on this path with confidence and joy, moving forward with the whole team, guided by Mary, our Mother, to discover and fulfil God’s plan together. Together we are learning to recognise God’s presence in our daily lives, to grow in charity and to bear witness to the Gospel with simplicity and hope.
Clovis Gwencho, sm
