Arrangements have been confirmed for the 74th Diocese of Middlesbrough Pilgrimage to Lourdes as we once again respond to Our Lady’s call to journey in faith, seek spiritual renewal and pray for healing and peace.
The pilgrimage will take place from Saturday May 29 to Friday June 4 2027 and will be organised in partnership with Joe Walsh Tours, whose representatives will be on hand to offer assistance.
We will travel by plane from Teesside Airport and prices will include full board in a hotel of your choice, transfers and one check-in bag and one cabin bag.
There will be the usual full religious programme plus guided walking tour of Lourdes visiting places associated with St Bernadette and guided visit to the sanctuaries, Grotto, Baths and Basilicas.
Each year, pilgrims from our diocese travel to this 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 St 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.
Everyone is welcome to join priests, religious, volunteers and fellow pilgrims from our own parishes. 
At the heart of our pilgrimage is prayer: daily Mass, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Rosary, the Torchlight Marian Procession and Blessed Sacrament Procession and time at the Grotto. 
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, while 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, serving and walking together in hope.
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.
We always need doctors, nurses, brancardiers and handmaids (male and female helpers) and musicians to assist with our pilgrimage. If you would like to join us or would like to know more, please give me a call on 07776 115160.
Our Formation Day is on Saturday March 6 and our Formation Evening is on Tuesday May 4. All helpers must attend one of these events if they wish to serve in Lourdes.

Mark Taylor, Pilgrimage Director

PRICES

Mediteranee £995
Agena £995
St Sauveur £1,069
Padoue £1,069
Eliseo £1,069
Roissy £1,069
Accueil Notre Dame £975
Seat Only £645

Single supplements apply. Travel insurance is available and proof of insurance must be given when booking.

For more details and to book, visit joewalshtours.co.uk

Supported pilgrims should contact Pat Ling on 01642 760105 for an Accueil or hotel application form.