2025 marks an exceptional event: the 100 years from Father Alexis HopitalPrado priest, a humble and committed witness to a Church that is close to the poorest.
Born on 14 February 1925ordained priest on 25 March 1950he joined the Prado in 1951 (temporary appointment on 03 July 1951, then perpetual appointment on 03 July 1954). Alexis Hopital has devoted his life to proclaiming the Gospel in the most humble of circumstances. For more than twenty years, alongside Father André Durget, he ministered in the working-class parishes of Voujeaucourt, Bart, Bavans, Dampierre and Berche, in one of the most disadvantaged areas of the Montbéliard region.
Visit 1966he became the the first working-class priest in the diocese of BesançonHe worked as a labourer in a public works company in L'Isle-sur-le-Doubs. His commitment to the world of the workers reflects a deep desire to share in the lives and struggles of those whom the Church must reach out to.
Visit 1973Prado called him to join the formation of priests and seminarianswhile continuing to work part-time as a cleaner in a hostel for young workers. At the end of his term of office as head of Prado de France, Georges Arnold asked him to take over as editor of the magazine QPN - Someone Among UsThis is a continuation of its mission of reflection and transmission.
1990 marks official recognition of its missionary roots in Lyon. A agreement was signed by the Bishop of Belfort-Montbéliard, Eugène Lecrosnier, and Cardinal Albert Decourtray. It emphasises that his presence in Lyon is a gift to the local Church, especially to those who keep their distance but are trying, in their own way, to build up bits of it. This commitment is confirmed in 2014 by Mgr Claude Schockert and approved by Cardinal Barbarin.
Today, at 100 yearsFather Alexis Hopital remains an inspiring figure in Prado and the Church in Lyon. His life is a living testimony to evangelical fidelity, service to the most humble and a deep-rooted commitment to mission.
The whole Prado family wishes you happy anniversary to Father Alexis.
