Hundreds of pilgrims from across the Archdiocese of Birmingham gathered together in prayer at the Marian shrine in Hednesford, Staffordshire.

The Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes on Sunday 2 July also marked Bishop Stephen Wright’s last public engagement for the Archdiocese as he will soon be installed as the new Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle.

The Hednesford Pilgrimage runs annually in response to Our Lady’s invitation to come in procession.

Every year since 1969 (bar the Covid years), pilgrims have come to the shrine to honour Our Lady of Lourdes. The pilgrimage offers a special insight into the care and community that pilgrims share with one another and is a great opportunity to meet old friends.

There was an opportunity for confessions and private devotions in the Grotto before the Rosary was said with local schools and Mass, with Anointing of the Sick, celebrated by Bishop Stephen.

The Rosary and Mass is held for the Hospitalite of Lourdes - the nurses, carers, brancardiers and handmaids who support pilgrims going to Lourdes with the Archdiocese, and for all pilgrims who have been to Lourdes or who want a little taste of Lourdes here in the Archdiocese.

Just a month ago hundreds of people experienced the spiritual journey to Lourdes as they joined the annual Diocesan Pilgrimage.

Relive the Lourdes Pilgrimage

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