Brothers from Australia Pay Tribute to St Peter Chanel on Futuna Island

Recently, Br Neville Solomon and Br Paul Bailey made a special journey to Futuna Island, the sacred place where St Peter Chanel was martyred. St Peter Chanel, a Marist Father from France, is honoured as the patron saint of Oceania. He had travelled to Futuna with one of Marcellin Champagnat’s own Brothers from the Hermitage in France - Br Marie-Nizier Delormes.

Br Neville Solomon and Br Paul Bailey

While St Peter Chanel was tragically martyred, Br Marie-Nizier survived the attack. His journey afterward was no less remarkable - he lived for some time in Sydney before eventually returning to France. Sadly, he passed away in London, never again seeing his beloved Hermitage.

The place where St Peter Chanel was killed

On Futuna, Br Neville and Br Paul visited the chapel dedicated to St Peter Chanel and the very place where he gave his life. It was a moment of deep reflection and connection with the rich Marist heritage that continues to inspire so many across the Pacific.

St Peter Chanel's Basilica

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