église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire de Saint-Maur-des-Fossés

In the serene commune of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, nestled in the Île-de-France region of France, stands the église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire, an architectural gem with a rich historical tapestry that beckons to be explored. This church, with its humble yet captivating facade, offers a journey through time, faith, and community spirit.

The Birth of a Chapel

The story of église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire begins in 1874 when the first commission was established to erect a chapel in Parc-Saint-Maur. The construction of the chapel faced numerous administrative hurdles, set against a backdrop of anticlerical sentiment both nationally and locally. Despite these challenges, perseverance prevailed. On October 31, 1885, the Compagnie des chemins de fer de l'Est signed a private promise to sell two plots of land for the construction of the church and a presbytery.

Public subscriptions enabled the commencement of construction in 1886, with the first stone laid in June of that year. After several municipal council meetings in June and July 1894, the opening of the chapel was approved. This decision was confirmed by a decree signed by President Félix Faure on January 31, 1896, and the official purchase of the land followed on March 11, 1896.

A Chapel Transformed

Initially, Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire was merely a chapel dependent on the parish church of Saint-Nicolas, which also oversaw the chapels of Saint-Hilaire and Adamville. However, the residents of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés had greater aspirations for their chapel. In 1899, a petition was signed by numerous inhabitants and sent to the archbishop, requesting the transformation of the chapel into a parish church. Despite opposition from the municipality, the law of separation of Church and State in 1905 provided Cardinal Richard the freedom to divide the parish of Saint-Maur into four independent parishes. Thus, on June 22, 1907, Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire was officially recognized as a parish church.

Architectural Evolution

As the years passed, the church saw several significant developments. On May 22, 1927, Cardinal Dubois, Archbishop of Paris, officiated the baptism of the church bell and the blessing of the new bays and vaults. Fast forward to the 1960s, a new parish center was constructed, with the first stone laid on April 9, 1967, and the inauguration taking place on October 13, 1968, in the presence of civil authorities and Mgr de Provenchères, Bishop of Créteil.

In 1990, major renovations were undertaken inside the church, necessitating its closure for six months. These renovations included rethinking the reception rooms, installing bulletin boards at the entrance, restoring the choir to its original level, and updating the interior with new lighting, heating, and sound systems. An oratory was also created in place of the old sacristy. On May 29, 2005, Bishop Daniel Labille of Créteil consecrated the church at the invitation of Father Stéphane Aulard.

In 2013, two new bells were installed to replace the defective old bell, and these were blessed on February 24, 2013, by Bishop Michel Santier of Créteil.

The Hammer Organ

A notable feature of the église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire is its Hammer organ, blessed in November 2009 and inaugurated on January 10, 2011, by six distinguished organists, including Véronique Aas du Rieux, the titular organist, and Éric Lebrun and Pierre Pincemaille, professors at the Conservatoire of Saint-Maur-des-Fossés. This organ adds a melodious dimension to the church, enhancing the spiritual experience of its visitors.

A Symbol of Devotion

The name Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire reflects a widespread devotion to the Virgin Mary and the celebration of the Rosary, a theme emphasized by Pope Leo XIII through nine encyclicals between 1883 and 1896. This devotion is mirrored in the church's very essence, making it a beacon of faith for its parishioners.

Visiting Today

Today, the église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of its community. Its modest exterior belies the rich history and the sense of peace that pervades its interior. Visitors can explore its architectural marvels, from the restored choir to the serene oratory, and listen to the harmonious notes of the Hammer organ. Each visit offers a chance to reflect on the church's journey and the unwavering spirit of those who brought it to life.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a seeker of spiritual solace, the église Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés promises a fulfilling and enlightening experience. Step inside, and let the echoes of devotion and community guide your journey through this remarkable sanctuary.