Pilgrimage

• Pilgrimage is a religious journey to a holy site/sacred place it is an act of worship and devotion.
• Lourdes, France.

  • St Bernadette had visions of Mary at age 14.
  • She had 18 visions between February and July 1858, near to the Massabielle Grotto.
  • Mary revealed herself with the words 'I am the immaculate conception.'
  • The spring there today has a reputation for healing, as Bernadette was healed of Asthma and many miracles have been performed there.
  • At Lourdes people will pray, take part in a torchlight procession and attend Mass in the grotto and collect water from the spring.
• Iona, Scotland.

  • Where saints have lived and prayers have been answered.
  • It is dedicated to Mary and was once home to St Columba who founded an abbey on the Island and is known for his evangelical work in Scotland.
  • Deeply spiritual place.
  • 130,000 pilgrims visit annually.
  • Pilgrims join the Pilgrim walk.
  • Pilgrim worship in the abbey church.