This summer six of our students; Eloise, Gabriella, Georgia, Jess, Maris and Siobhan joined around
300 young people from across the Archdiocese of Liverpool on pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. As
young volunteers, they played a vital role in supporting elderly and unwell pilgrims, helping them to
navigate the town, attend services and Masses and even enjoy some time shopping and getting ice
cream.
Going on pilgrimage to Lourdes gave them opportunities to socialise with new people, make new
friendships and learn new skills.
Jess and Siobhan reflect on their time in Lourdes:
Over the summer we went to Lourdes. This was Jess’s third year and Siobhan’s second year. It was
by far the best year for us, as we had the opportunity to push the pilgrims in their wheelchairs. This
experience opened a door for us spiritually, allowing us to form closer relationships with the assisted
pilgrims we were caring for.
We spent the week taking them to various services and masses and getting to know each one
personally; having discussions about how long we have been travelling to Lourdes, what brings us
back each year and our own relationships with God.
We also took them to the Mass of Anointing, Torchlight Procession and the Blessed Sacrament
Procession. We felt the Processions were particularly meaningful experiences because everyone on
the pilgrimage join in walking the same path and saying the same prayers. This really strengthened
our relationship with God as we felt our prayers were seen and heard and we got to share this
experience with so many other people.
Jess said: “My favourite part of Lourdes has always been torchlight procession because it brings me
closer to God and reminds me of my purpose in Lourdes. This year, I was able to participate with the
assisted pilgrims which was a very meaningful experience because as I walked with them and
alongside many other people from different walks of life, I truly felt God’s presence around me.
Taking the pilgrims to the grotto to be a spiritual experience because we shared a moment of
vulnerability which brought me closer to God.”
Siobhan shared: “My personal experience with Lourdes is that last time I went, I felt that I was close
to God but not in the way I did this time around. This time around I felt that I was able to speak to
God in a way that I have not before and that I felt that God had been listening to me and as well
helping me whilst I was there. I loved it so much.”
The Lourdes Youth Pilgrimage is open to young people in Year 10 or above and next year’s
pilgrimage dates are 22nd - 31st July. If you are wanting to know more about the pilgrimage and what
it entails speak to Miss Wall.