Pilgrimage

• Pilgrimage


  Journey-opportunity to reflect on life's journey, a journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal
• Pilgrimage for Catholics


  • Opportunity for prayer, personal reflection and attend Mass
• Lourdes is located in the South of France
• Who had visions?, How many?, What was she told to do?

  Bernadette Soubirous had 18 visions of Mary-she was told to dig for a spring (water)
• Since 1858, many have bathed in the water of Lourdes, believed to have miraculous healing powers
• Pilgrimage to Lourdes


  • Thousands of pilgrims pray at the grotto. Large numbers volunteer as helpers of the sick
  • Many have a life changing experience
  • They might not come back from Lourdes cured-but may feel a greater sense of peace
• Pilgrimage to Lourdes is a practical way ordinary people can respond to the mystery of suffering
• Significance of Lourdes for Catholics

  • Gives Catholics hope that in spite of evil in the world - God is IMMANENT and active in the world
  • Bernadette came from a poor family-she had bad health-she struggled in school-this reassures Catholics that Mary will help them too
  • Mary also promised Bernadette to help her in the next life