Each year, pilgrims from our diocese travel to Lourdes, a small town in the foothills of the Pyrenees that has become one of the most important places of prayer and pilgrimage in the Catholic world.

In 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette Soubirous, a poor local girl, calling people to prayer, conversion, and trust in God’s mercy. From those quiet encounters grew a worldwide pilgrimage centred on healing — not only of the body, but of the heart and soul.

A diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes is not a holiday. It is a journey of faith, made alongside priests, religious, volunteers, and fellow pilgrims from our own parishes. At its heart is prayer: daily Mass, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Rosary, the Torchlight Procession, and time at the Grotto itself. For many, it is the first time they have prayed in such a focused and supported way.

Lourdes is especially known for its care of the sick and vulnerable. Pilgrims who travel with illness, disability, or deep personal burdens often speak of being carried by the faith of others. Those who come as helpers frequently discover that they receive far more than they give. Lourdes has a quiet way of re-ordering priorities and restoring perspective.

People go to Lourdes for many reasons. Some seek physical healing. Others come with grief, questions, or exhaustion. Many simply come because they feel drawn, even if they cannot yet explain why. What unites pilgrims is the experience of the Church as a living family — praying together, serving together, and walking together in hope.

You do not need to be an expert in faith, nor in perfect health, to go to Lourdes. You only need to be willing to make the journey. For many, it becomes a turning point — a place where faith is renewed, trust is deepened, and God feels close again.

If you have never been, a diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes is a chance to step out of routine and into something deeper, alongside your own diocesan family.