On October 13, 2019, thousands of pilgrims and faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square in Rome to witness the canonization of Marguerite Bays. She then became the second Swiss woman to be sanctified by the Church.
Jean-Daniel Berset, president of the Marguerite Bays Foundation, remembers this moment: “Seeing her portrait in Saint Peter’s Basilica, next to other saints, it was overwhelming. Many people were moved, saying to themselves: “Here we are.” We were experiencing a great historical moment.”
A long-awaited celebration
In 2019, the Marguerite Bays Foundation planned a big celebration to welcome pilgrims returning from Rome, as well as those who were unable to make the trip. However, the COVID-19 pandemic postponed this event. Five years later, the festivities finally took place this weekend in Siviriez, in homage to the saint.
A moment of communion
The program of celebrations included solemn masses, collective prayers and a procession leaving from the community home. “People are looking for moments of spiritual sharing. These festivities are a great moment of unity and communion,” concluded Jean-Daniel Berset.
Marguerite Bays, born in 1815 in La Pierraz, led a simple life, dedicated to prayer and serving others. Today, his house in Siviriez is a place of pilgrimage which attracts many visitors each year.
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