Corpus Christi in Lourdes 2024

Every year at the end of July, the Diocese of Lancaster embarks on its annual pilgrimage to Lourdes. It is a special place where Our Lady appeared to a young girl named Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. In total there were 18 apparitions, and people from all over the world visit. It is in particular a place of pilgrimage for the sick and inform, as there have been 70 miraculous cures linked to the Grotto which have been recognised by the Catholic Church.

This year, a number of staff and pupils have joined the pilgrimage. Our Second in Religious Education, Mr McMahon, is the Chief Brancardier for the pilgrimage, and this year his department colleague Mr Thom has joined his team. These volunteers co-ordinate the processions and assist the on-duty medical team.

Furthermore, a number of pupils past and present – Casey, Emily, Erin, Luke and Russell – travelled as part of the Youth volunteer group. Russell made his first pilgrimage last year but for the other four it was their first time in Lourdes. Their duties are primarily concerned with looking after the assisted pilgrims and taking them to the numerous Masses, services and processions. The work which all of these young people do is truly inspirational.

They were also joined in Lourdes by Assistant Headteacher Mr Warham, who had travelled a few days early with the Liverpool Archdiocesan Youth Pilgrimage, on which he serves as one of the Over 18’s St Frai Co-ordinators. Between shifts, he met up with the Lancaster group at their hotel on the final full day of his stay in Lourdes.

The Lancaster pilgrimage will continue until Tuesday 30th July, with the Youth travelling back by coach. On the way back, they will enjoy a day in Paris, not only seeing the sights of this beautiful city but soaking up the atmosphere of the Olympics.

Next year will be the 100th Centenary Year of the Diocese of Lancaster and also the Jubilee Holy Year. It would be incredible if the school could be represented by even more pupils and staff in this special year, and they welcome volunteers who are young and also young at heart. If anyone would like further information about the Lourdes Pilgrimage, they should speak to Mr McMahon or Mr Warham when we return to school, or check out the pilgrimage website.