Today is one of my favourite feast days. Yes, I know that technically it can only be observed as a commemoration, as we're in Lent, but it's still a big day for me.I love Lourdes. It is the most spiritually uplifting place. I love the way that the sick and disabled get priority... and heaven help you if you block a wheelchair lane. I love it that all the shops around town are selling statues and rosaries and medals... but no-one minds that you've bought stuff from the shop next door. I love the processions.
But most especially, I love the fact that Lourdes is one in the eye for our secular society. Evidence for the existence of God? Well, are sixty-six fully attested miracles enough for you?
I would love to visit Lourdes one day. Częstochowa too. In fact...any place of pilgrimage!
ReplyDeleteMac!! Have you been to visit the Grotto in Lourdes today? Why not go now:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.lourdes-france.org/index.php?id=507&contexte=en#
click: webcam at the Grotte
My parents have just come from there!!! :c). Happy Feast Day!
We had Mass to commemorate today's feast in our Cathedral with out Bishop as chief celebrant.
ReplyDeleteWhat really touched me was how many fog braved a foggy night to attend, and more so, 2 of our pilgrimage team (non-RC's) who could sing "Immaculate Mary" word / verse perfect without a glance at the Hymn book!
I'm gonna miss not being there this year.
:(
Great to read your post,i too have been greatly devoted to OL of Lourdes right from childhood.
ReplyDeleteCould you tell me where i can find online the mass text for the fest of OL of Lourdes
Joseph
Lourdes. A wonderful place of pilgrimage. I would encourage you to go Mark. I went in 1999 and 2000.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless.