Twelve people and Father Michael went on pilgrimage to Issoudun in Central France, visiting Lisieux, Chartres, Bruges, Nevers, Paray le Monial, Taize and Paris – all in eight days!  The retreat team at Issoudon gave an introduction to the life and spirituality of the founder, Jules Chevalier, whose vision was that everyone should experience the love of the Heart of Christ.  “May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved”.



The church doors at Issoudun are always open, and as you look down the church you see the original statue of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, extending her arms in welcome.  She’s surrounded by countless votive lights, which are always lit – a constant stream of pilgrims from all over the world come here.  The Director of the Shrine told us to leave all our burdens with Mary.  

The foundation of the MSCs is largely attributed to the intercession of Our Lady – hence devotion to “Our Lady of the Sacred Heart".