Tuesday 30 May 2023

Tuesday – Mass celebrating the work of the Lourdes Hospitalite and young people on our Pilgrimage

Those who give their time freely this week and at other times of the year, to care for those who are sick, whether here in Lourdes or in other places.

This Mass takes place in what is often known as the Underground Basilica, where each afternoon, the Blessed Sacrament Procession reaches it conclusion, and where on Sundays and Wednesdays in Lourdes, the International Mass is celebrated. Its purpose is to facilitate large gatherings in a most accessible way. This modern building is adorned with images of the Saints.

Our Diocesan pilgrimage has also nurtured many young lives and we pray for the work of the Kenelm Youth Trust, for our schools and chaplaincies who are with us on Pilgrimage this year and for all young people in the Church: that we may recognise the youthfulness of our calling and see in our young pilgrims a sign of hope for the Church’s present and future. We thank God for the many young people whose lives have been shaped by the experience of volunteering and caring for sick pilgrims here in Lourdes.

This Mass was celebrated by Bishop Stephen Wright and Fr Jeremy Howard, Pilgrimage Director, delivered the Homily.

A number of people were also presented with three, five and 10 year medals for their continued service on the Lourdes Pilgrimage.

A very special presentation was made to Kevin and Jane Goodyear, here this year as pilgrims. The couple have worked tirelessly for the Archdiocese on previous pilgrimages.

Today they were both awarded the Pope's Benemerenti medal, for their service to the Catholic Church.

As the presentation was made by Archbishop Bernard Longley the congregation broke out with cheers and applause.

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