Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2019

The Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes at the beginning of August was led by Bishop Mark, Fr Kieran (Diocesan Director) along with Fr Anthony O’Gorman (Youth Director) and other priests of the Diocese. It was a particular joy to have with us newly ordained priest, Fr James Barber and our two seminarians, Albert Lawes and Andrew Marlborough. The Pilgrimage was characterised by a great sense of being a “Pilgrimage family” and very much enjoying one another’s company as we participated in the various devotions and spent time together. On our first day, Bishop Mark gave a sermon about the indwelling joy that is associated with Our Lady’s intercession, and that really did set the tone of what was to come. We certainly were aware of the presence of Our Lord and the Blessed Mother.

The pilgrimage was fortunate to have a large group of Young people this year which was a great blessing to us all. They looked after less mobile pilgrims with great kindness and sensitivity. We were very fortunate with the weather and some of the pilgrims went swimming while others were content to paddle on an afternoon at the Lac de Lourdes and on an outing to Gavarnie up in the Pyrenees.

Our rep, Liz, made sure that we turned out at the right place at the right time and her humour greatly contributed to the happy time we had.  All the usual features of a pilgrimage were entered into with enthusiasm and prayerfulness, as some of the photographs will witness.

Overall, we were blessed in that it was a much grace-filled and happy pilgrimage and everyone seemed resolute to return next year. Some of the pilgrims intend to visit our parishes in the coming year to share their experience and to encourage others to make the pilgrimage next year.

Check out the Photo Gallery below!

Why not join us in 2020? The dates are July 31st to August 6th

• Keep a look-out for updates in your parish newsletters or at joewalshtours.ie

You May Also Like…