This year’s pilgrimage was celebrated from 15th to 19th July 2024
186 pilgrims joined the event which include: 26 assisted pilgrims supported by a youth contingent of 42 school pupils and 12 school staff; a medical team of 9 nurses and 1 doctor; 16 members of the clergy; and 6 over 18 helper.
After arriving in Lourdes, the pilgrims had an Opening Mass in the Chapel Notre-Dame.
The next day, it was an early start for the group with the Grotto Mass. It was a moving moment for our pilgrims. The same day those who were visiting Lourdes for the first time joined a walking tour. They went to the Basilica St Pie X, St Bernadette’s houses and St Bernadette Museum.
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Later on the day, there was a Rosary for Vocations followed by the Blessing and Lighting of the Pilgrimage Candle and the Passage through the Grotto where our pilgrims could leave their intentions. The second day was closed by our participation in the Marian Procession.
The third day began with an International Mass held in the Basilica St Pie X where we joined pilgrimage groups from other countries. Bishop Patrick read the only part in English. Pilgrims also had the Stations of the Cross divided in two groups: those who could, did the 15 Stations of the Cross located in a hillside walking path, and the other group did the Stations in a shaded area along the Gave. Just after it, pilgrims joined the Eucharistic Procession where Canon Daniel Bowdren was one of the chosen priests to lead with the Blessed Sacrament. The Reconciliation Service was the last event of that day.
Pilgrims had the Mass with the Anointing of the Sick at the Chapel St Bernadette, cote Carmel. It was a lovely and intimate moment. The same morning those following the pilgrimage from home had the chance to join Bishop Patrick and other pilgrims on a Zoom call to speak about their experience and make them feel a little bit closer to Lourdes.The afternoon events continued with the Geste de l’eau (the water gesture) and the Eucharistic Procession. To end the day, a group of young pilgrims were chosen to carry Our Lady during the Marian Procession.
To close the pilgrimage, all the pilgrims had a lovely Garden party where they could spend time together. Those brave enough showed their talents singing, playing the piano or even breakdancing!
Click here or on the picture bellow to access to our online album where you can download the photos.
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