Discover Texas-Lyon history

In the 19th century, Catholic leaders formed in and around Lyon helped shape the early religious, educational, and charitable life of Texas. Jean-Marie Odin, educated at the Seminary of Saint-Irénée, became the first Bishop of Texas and later Bishop of Galveston. Claude-Marie Dubuis, also formed in the Lyon tradition, became Bishop of Galveston in 1862 and invited religious sisters to serve communities in need.

Their work helped give rise to churches, schools, hospitals, and ministries that continue to shape Texas today. From Galveston to San Antonio, Houston, and beyond, the Texas–Lyon story lives on through institutions of faith, education, healthcare, and care for the vulnerable.

This history has been remembered across generations. In 1988, a delegation of Catholic bishops from Texas traveled to Lyon and the surrounding region on a pilgrimage, visiting places associated with the early bishops, priests, and religious communities who helped build the Catholic Church in Texas.

Today, the Texas–Lyon Heritage Society exists to preserve this shared story, honor the people and institutions who carried it forward, and renew the relationship between Texas and Lyon for future generations.