Montferrier, July 3, 2024 – Surrounded by family, friends, and numerous members of the Society of African Missions (SMA), Fr. Régis Peillon celebrated his 100th birthday. Born on July 3, 1924, in Champagne-au-Mont-d’Or in the Diocese of Lyon, this dedicated missionary devoted his life to the service of God and others.

Today, the SMA family from the Lyon Province gathered in the presence of the Superior General to honor Fr. Peillon. In an atmosphere filled with gratitude and joy, the life and work of this great missionary were celebrated.

A Life of Devotion and Service

Fr. Régis Peillon received a comprehensive education. After primary school at the Externat de la Tour Pétrat, he pursued secondary studies at Saint-Thomas d’Aquin in Oullins from 1930 to 1942. He obtained his baccalaureate and then a degree in civil law. In 1945, he began his novitiate in Chanly and continued theological studies in Lyon.

On July 8, 1950, Régis Peillon was ordained a priest for the African Missions at the Benedictines of Pradines by Bishop Bornet of Saint-Etienne. A description by Fr. Boucheix speaks volumes about his character: “Above-average intelligence, constant zeal in work… discreet, helpful. His bourgeois upbringing does not prevent him from putting everyone at ease and earning everyone’s esteem… He loves intellectual work but also willingly engages in manual labor.”

A Mission in Côte d’Ivoire

Fr. Peillon began his mission in Côte d’Ivoire in 1951 at the minor seminary of Bingerville, where he was a professor until 1955. Subsequently, he took on various responsibilities, including Director of Works in Treichville and National Director of Catholic Education.

Fr. Lophias Yeboua, Vice-Provincial of Côte d’Ivoire, expressed his gratitude: “I am here on behalf of the Province of Côte d’Ivoire to thank God for the life of Fr. Peillon. 100 years received from the Lord and 100 years given to Côte d’Ivoire.” He highlighted Fr. Peillon’s importance in the formation of the local clergy and elite, calling him “an active high-level member of national education at the time of independence.“

A Vision for the Church

After a temporary return to France as Provincial Bursar, Fr. Peillon returned to Côte d’Ivoire in 1977 with a clear vision of his missionary role. He aimed to “work for the missionary activity of the Church in Abidjan.” The fruits of his labor were significant, with a thriving diocese and a growing number of catechumens and vocations.

In 1983, he initiated a twinning with the parish of Saint Francis Xavier in Paris, strengthening the bonds between Christian communities in France and Côte d’Ivoire.

Return to France and Recognition

In 1992, Fr. Peillon returned permanently to France, where he continued to serve the mission through various responsibilities. In 1999, he was appointed to manage African artifacts for the Friendship Days, a service he performed with dedication.

Fr. François du Penhoat, Provincial of Lyon, also spoke to express his gratitude towards Fr. Peillon and those who accompanied him throughout his life, as well as the staff of Montferrier: “A big bravo to all those who helped Fr. Peillon get here: the kitchen with healthy food, the infirmary with the right pills at the right time, and all of you who find our brother in his room every morning and say with a smile, ‘Good morning, Fr. Peillon, are you well this morning!’”

An Exemplary Life

The SMA Superior General Fr. Antonio Porcellato, concluded the celebrations by emphasizing the importance of personal encounter with Christ in Fr. Peillon’s life. “His life shines because of Him and the Good News of the Gospel,” he stated, highlighting Fr. Peillon’s testimony of faith and dedication.

Fr. Régis Peillon is a shining example of what it means to live a life of service and faith. At 100 years old, he continues to inspire those around him with his humility, devotion, and unwavering commitment to the Christian mission. Happy birthday, Fr. Peillon, and thank you for all you have accomplished.