Louis and Zélie Martin Sanctuary of Alençon
Alençon Orne Founded in 2015
Established in 2015 in Alençon, in Normandy, following the canonization of Louis and Zélie Martin, the first married couple to be canonized together by the Church, the sanctuary is above all a sanctuary for couples and families. At the heart of the diocese of Séez, it brings together the places that marked the lives of the Martins: the birthplace of Saint Thérèse, the Notre-Dame basilica, the Pont de la Rencontre, and the church of Montsort. Five Carmelite sisters and the Carmelite Messengers of the Holy Spirit provide nearly daily Mass, Thursday adoration, the sacrament of reconciliation, and spiritual guidance for pilgrims.
Its mission is to show that an ordinary married and family life can lead to holiness. Through the joys and trials experienced by the Martins, everyone can find something of their own story. The sanctuary welcomes all pilgrims, whatever their background, for a time of spiritual renewal.
What awaits you
Upcoming retreats
Practical information
Accommodation
The guest house offers 66 beds in family rooms, double rooms, and dormitories. Two rooms are accessible to guests with reduced mobility. Each room has a private bathroom and toilet. Sheets and towels are provided.
Dining
Meals are prepared by a local caterer and reheated on site. The dining room can seat up to 85 guests. Breakfast is prepared on site and included in the stay.
Common areas
The guest house has a 70 m² conference room with sound system and video projection equipment, a multipurpose activity room, and an enclosed garden adjoining the ramparts with a terrace and children's play area.
Accessibility
Two rooms are specially designed for guests with reduced mobility. The Sainte-Thérèse chapel and the guest house are located 300 meters from the birthplace of Saint Thérèse.
Getting there
The SNCF train station is less than a ten-minute walk from the sanctuary!
Allow less than three hours from Paris, and about one hour from Caen, Le Mans, and Laval.
Winding through the Norman Switzerland region, you can reach Alençon by bike!