Cloister of Mercy

Lisieux, France

In July 2013, the sanctuary of Lisieux decided to create a cloister of Mercy (located immediately to the right of the entrance to the basilica): an educational space created by Father Didier-Marie Golay, and a space meditative and artistic, non-cult, centered on the figure of Henri Pranzini, entrusted to Fleur Nabert.

Scenography

At the center of the room, a bronze sculpture represents the criminal for whom Therese de Lisieux prayed and who repented during his last moments. This one has no face because it represents all those who ask for forgiveness. He is on his knees in front of a copy of the cross which was held out to him during his condemnation. His golden face is lifted towards seven lines which descend from the sky like a beneficent rain of mercy. His hands, crossed behind his back, are not tied because the forgiveness he’s finally asking for delivers him.

Cloister of Mercy

Pranzini is like the good thief at the crucifixion. This very special moment evoked by the abstract stained-glass windows, a Golgotha of colors and fire. Young Thérèse

All around these works, the public can choose to stay at the back of the arena or enter the choir to discover Pranzini face to face and see his heart change. The rain of mercy which overwhelms him enlightens him also falls on those who enter this space.

Young Therese

On the side, Thérèse is watching. As a child, she called the Holy Spirit upon her, as shown by the golden bird that she let fly to the one she will call her “first child”. The infinite mercy of God is her secret which she confides in golden letters on the wall.