The Incorrupt Saint of Nevers

What an unforgettable day! After leaving our hotel in Issoire — the town where our bus driver, Didier, was born — we made our way toward Nevers, where St. Bernadette Soubirous spent her final years and where her incorrupt body is displayed.

Our morning drive was foggy and misty, leaving some of us concerned that we might have a wet day ahead. The forecast said there was a zero percent chance of rain; the bus windshield said otherwise.

By late morning, however, the sun was shining — just in time for our arrival in Nevers. France has frequent rain showers, but we’ve been blessed with mostly clear skies. Margaret joked that Tangney Tours charges extra for such good weather, and I’d say it’s worth the surcharge!

When we arrived in Nevers, we enjoyed a private Mass in the convent. Fr. Ray was the principal celebrant, and Fr. Swink gave the homily. Fr. Swink spoke about how the incorrupt bodies of St. Bernadette and other saints are a sign of the truth of the Gospel. Even though Bernadette died nearly 150 years ago, her unpreserved body has experienced no decay. This extraordinary grace is both a testimony to her sanctity and a foretaste of the glorious resurrection that all who die in the grace of Jesus will experience.

After Mass, we visited the St. Bernadette Chapel to see her incorrupt body ourselves. It was deeply moving to witness the miraculous preservation of this humble young saint.

We had plenty of time in the afternoon to explore the convent grounds — the museum, grotto, bookstore, gardens, and the Blessed Sacrament chapel.

Some of us also used the time to explore the city of Nevers.

By 5:00, we boarded the bus to head to Paray-le-Monial. After checking in, we gathered in the dining room for another delicious meal.

Tomorrow we’ll visit St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and St. Claude de la Colombière!