Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Notre-Dame-en-son-Assumption de Crévéchamps, built in the 18th century in the department of Meurthe-et-Moselle, probably replaces an older building, as evidenced by traces of the 17th century. A grave of 1600 in the cemetery and archives mentioning a brotherhood founded in 1651 suggest an earlier religious occupation. The choir, at the separate paving of the nave, and unsuitable benches could be remains of this first church. The current building, of sober style known as a barn, includes a nave, a choir, a bell tower and a sacristy. He was blessed in 1774, as attests a plaque.

The church underwent several repairs: plasters rebuilt in 1890, frame in 1902, and complete roof renovation in 2003. His furniture includes a cross path blessed in 1855 and three bells installed in 1860, blessed by a delegate of the Bishop of Nancy. These elements reflect its central role in parish life, especially through masses and solemn blessings.

The statue of Our Lady of Grace, the object of an annual pilgrimage, comes from the hermitage of the Garenne, founded in 1686 by two brothers on condition of celebrating an annual Mass. In the 18th century, the hermitage, led by Brother Hilarion, became a place of devotion until its dissolution in 1790 during the Revolution. The statue, coveted by several villages, was finally transported to Crévéchamps in 1793 or 1795, according to the sources. Since then, an annual pilgrimage has commemorated this event, with a procession and a votive mass on July 2.

Father Michel Cornemant, parish priest of Crévéchamps until 1784, played a key role in supporting hermits and legiting funds to educate children. After the Revolution, the "Conseil de fabrique" replaced the dissolved brotherhood, preserving the archives thanks to the parish priest Courtois (1864–93). These documents demonstrate religious continuity despite political upheavals.

Today, the church remains an active place of worship, perpetuating centuries-old traditions. Its modest architecture and its history linked to Marian devotion make it an emblematic heritage of the region, mixing medieval, revolutionary, and contemporary practices.

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