Conferences all over Europe
In winter, the dioceses, the pilgrimage directors, the Hospitalities organise conferences to which all those in charge of organising pilgrimages to Lourdes are invited. They share and shape the proposals that will drive the pilgrimage.
Some pictures of these important discussions.
“I am the Immaculate Conception”
The theme for 2020 is inspired by the words chosen by the Lady to answer Bernadette’s question and to introduce herself: “I am the Immaculate Conception”. To explain the words, pilgrims can find all the insights into the text available on our website
Three celebrations
In order to help you during your pilgrimage, there are some gestures that you can make.
Make the water gesture
Through baptism, Christ gives us access to the spring of life which has been placed deep in our hearts. The Sanctuary suggests a water celebration, either personal or in community. It can be supplemented with songs and prayers (you’ll need to provide containers filled with water from the Cave and drinking cups).
Light a candle
Immaculate, Mary is a being of light. The candle that Bernadette lit helped her pray. It reminds us of that held by the godparents during baptism. Let’s imitate Bernadette and go to the Grotto to ask for a light in our lives. In Lourdes, each day ends with the Marian torchlight procession, starting at 9 p.m.
Go to confession
Bernadette, seeing the beautiful Lady of Massabielle all “enveloped in light”, went to confession for the first time in her life three days after the first apparition. The pastoral theme “I am the Immaculate Conception” gives us a chance to reflect on forgiveness, because the presence of Mary opens us up to hope. Forgiveness granted or received opens us to life. We become free again. The Sanctuary suggests a celebration of forgiveness under the gaze of Mary. Let us pray to Mary so that, reassured by her tenderness and by the mercy of God, we may receive the sacrament of confession.
1 av. Monseigneur Théas
