Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de la Garde
In the heart of Marseille, the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de la Garde welcomes millions of pilgrims and visitors each year within its walls overlooking the sea and the city. This Good Mother needs her children to serve those who come to visit her.
This summer, the sanctuary offers a special welcome to young people between 20 and 35 years old to become volunteers.
Retreats organized by the community
Notre-Dame de la Garde: an iconic sanctuary in Marseille
In 1214, a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady was erected by one of the monks from Saint Victor Abbey atop the hill overlooking Marseille. Cherished by sailors who entrusted their navigation to be protected as they left the port, it was quickly embraced by popular devotion.
It adopted the name Notre-Dame de la Garde after its fortification in the 16th century during the siege by Charles V. It was indeed because of its strategic position that it was repeatedly requisitioned by the army. Through the ages, the devotion intensified. In 1720, Notre-Dame de la Garde delivered the city from the plague. It is much more than a simple monument. It is a sign of Mary's protection for the people of Marseille, who affectionately call her "Good Mother".
Each year, it attracts over 2 million visitors from around the world. These include tourists who come to contemplate the beauty of its Romano-Byzantine architecture, its golden mosaics, and this place listed as a historic monument since 1917, but also pilgrims who come to entrust their intentions and thank the Queen of this place.
This sanctuary, steeped in history and spirituality, has been a landmark for the faithful for over 800 years.
The Virgin Mary is a bridge between the religions that coexist in the heart of the city of Marseille.
Welcoming visitors: a summer mission at the sanctuary
The life of the sanctuary is punctuated by liturgical offices (Lauds, Masses, rosary, adoration...) and visits from tourists and pilgrims. Many people pass through the place without approaching this spiritual dimension. The challenge is to transform a simple visit into a memorable experience, filled with gentleness and humanity.
In this spirit of welcome and mission, the community is launching, starting July 14 and running through the end of August, volunteer weeks at the sanctuary. These weeks will aim to introduce people to Marian devotion at this place and offer a warm welcome to pilgrims. This is the period when the largest number of visitors arrives and when managing the flow and respect for the place becomes challenging.
What to expect during your stay
Being a volunteer at Notre-Dame de la Garde: a unique experience
Volunteers will play a key role in the life of the sanctuary by fulfilling several missions:
- Welcome visitors with kindness and provide them with explanations about the history and spiritual meaning of Notre-Dame de la Garde.
- Organize and lead prayer times or guided tours.
- Create a space for listening and dialogue for those seeking to deepen their faith or discover the Christian message.
- Prepare and accompany religious celebrations to provide an environment conducive to contemplation.
These volunteer weeks will also be a wonderful opportunity for each participant to experience a meaningful time of sharing, faith, and service in an exceptional setting.
A meaningful time in an exceptional setting
Young people between 20 and 35 years old are invited to stay for a minimum period of 7 days.
They will be housed within the sanctuary in an exceptional setting that welcomed Pope Francis during his visit in September 2023. This first group of volunteers will have the privilege of living within these walls, in the citadel with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
They will have a mission of service and welcome during the day and will have daily teaching and time for prayer and renewal.
Geography and activities
In Bouches-du-Rhône, on the Mediterranean coast under the Marseille sun. The coordinators will ensure that volunteers have a pleasant and refreshing stay. Activities outside the sanctuary will be organized to enjoy the city, relax after missions, and build friendships.
Activities around Notre-Dame de la Garde
During your stay, you can enjoy the legendary city of Marseille.
A wide range of activities is available to you:
- Visit the old port and the various cultural neighborhoods of Marseille (le Panier, le Roucas-Blanc, Prado beaches...)
- Taste the culinary specialties of Provence, from bouillabaisse to aïoli, ending with the traditional navettes...
- Sharpen your throwing skills on a pétanque court
- Discover the trails winding through the Provençal scrubland
- Walk in the footsteps of Marcel Pagnol by climbing the legendary Garlaban
- Visit the beautiful Sainte-Victoire mountain that fascinated the great painter Cézanne.
Practical information
Discover more locations
