A Grace-filled Pilgrimage to Lourdes

Bishop Deenihan accompanied over 400 pilgrims from all over the Diocese on pilgrimage to Lourdes recently. The pilgrimage, coordinated by Fr. Joe Gallagher, Diocesan Pilgrimage Director, commenced with Mass at the grotto at Massabielle celebrated by Fr. Gallagher.

The liturgies were prepared and overseen by Fr. Mark Mohan, Master of Ceremonies. The homilists throughout the pilgrimage included Fr. Brendan Corrigan, Fr. Derek Darby, Fr. Patrick Moore, Fr. Joe Gallagher, and Fr. Mark English. Music throughout the pilgrimage was led by the Cathedral Choristers, Mullingar, under the direction of Dervilla Conlon and assisted by organist Fr. Robert Mc Cabe.

The pilgrimage was supported by a great team of volunteers and members of hospitality who tirelessly, generously and joyfully cared for our pilgrims. Their particular care of the sick made it an experience of grace, joy and healing. The Diocese is indebted to the regional secretaries, fundraisers, leaders with specific responsibilities during the pilgrimage, parish groups from across the diocese and those who prayed for the pilgrims.

The Youth Programme accompanied student-pilgrims from St. Mary's Secondary School, Mullingar, Eureka Secondary School, Kells and St. Patrick's Classical School, Navan along with their teachers and volunteers. When not assisting pilgrims and participating in the diocesan pilgrimage programme, the 'Meath Youth' guided pilgrims in a Holy Hour, prayed the High Stations, and hiked to Bartres where they visited the sheep fold and venerated the relic of St. Bernadette. Their programme concluded with a Service of Thanksgiving in the City of the Poor before returning home.

Our sincere thanks to all who assisted, supported or prayed for the success of our diocesan pilgrimage.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.
St. Bernadette, pray for us.