Did you know that a centuries-old French chapel, once graced by the prayers of Saint Joan of Arc herself, now sits quietly in the heart of Milwaukee in Wisconsin?
If you ever find yourself on the campus of Marquette University, you might be surprised to discover the Saint Joan of Arc Chapel, whose stones tell the story of her faith across time and continents!
Originally named the Chapelle de St. Martin de Sayssuel and built around 1420 in the village of Chasse-sur-Rhône near Lyon, France, this small Gothic chapel was a place of prayer for many generations of Catholics.
According to pious tradition, Joan of Arc visited here after meeting King Charles VII in 1429. She paused before a statue of the Virgin Mary, praying for guidance and courage before she took up her mission. There, Joan stood upon a certain flat stone, offered her prayers and then kissed it, entrusting her future to God. Even today, this so-called “Joan Stone” can be found behind the chapel’s altar, and visitors have been said to remark that it feels unusually cool to the touch.
Over time, the chapel fell into disrepair, only to later be rediscovered in the 1920s. Carefully, the chapel was dismantled and shipped across the ocean by a Catholic benefactor who wanted to preserve its history and tradition. New stained glass was added in repair, and the “Joan Stone” traveled safely to its new home.
After a fire spared the chapel but destroyed the buildings of the neighboring estate, it was soon donated to Marquette University, where it was reconstructed piece by piece once again. Today, it serves as a place of prayer and reflection for students and all pilgrims alike.
Why does this matter for us? The chapel’s history is more than a tale of moving stones. It is a tangible reminder of God’s Will. Saint Joan’s humble prayer in this once-village chapel led to her heroic courage and enduring faith. Even in our own busy lives, God invites us to bring Him our fears and hopes, just as Saint Joan did.
So if you ever visit, place your hand on the “Joan Stone” and remember her trust in God. Pray for courage, for faith and for hearts ready to follow where Christ leads.
Saint Joan of Arc, pray for us! 🙏
Editorial credit: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com
