The Torchlight Procession
The Torchlight Procession in Lourdes is a deeply moving, nightly event where thousands of pilgrims carry candles in procession following a statue of the Virgin Mary while reciting the Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful or Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary, with each decade interspersed with hymns. Each decade is introduced with a passage of scripture and a brief reflection in several languages which give direction to the prayer. In the serenity of the evening, each pilgrim carries his or her own personal intentions as the prayer gathers the assembly “of all nations, people and languages” with the Virgin Mary.
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The procession leaves from the Grotto to the Rosary Basilica, symbolizing faith, unity, and the light of Christ, typically held daily from April to October at 9 PM. Introduced in 1863 by Father Marie-Antoine, a capuchin also known as the 'Saint of Toulouse', it is the most popular celebration, a poignant display of global devotion, and a powerful spiritual experience for believers of all ages, including the sick.
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At the end of the procession, pilgrims can bring their torches to the Chapel of Candles, letting their light shine in the night and symbolising their faith and hope. This is a moment of communion and sharing, where each torch represents a prayer, an intention, a hope.​
​"The apparitions were bathed in light and God chose to ignite in Bernadette’s gaze a flame which converted countless hearts. How many come here to see it with the hope—secretly perhaps—of receiving some miracle; then, on the return journey, having had a spiritual experience of life in the Church, they change their outlook upon God, upon others and upon themselves. A small flame called hope, compassion, tenderness now dwells within them. A quiet encounter with Bernadette and the Virgin Mary can change a person’s life, for they are here, in Massabielle, to lead us to Christ who is our life, our strength and our light. May the Virgin Mary and Saint Bernadette help you to live as children of light in order to testify, every day of your lives, that Christ is our light, our hope and our life!"
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(Pope Benedict XVI - Apostolic visit to Lourdes, 13 September 2008)
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HOW THE DIOCESE PARTICIPATES IN THE PROCESSION
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On occasion, pilgrims from the diocese are invited by Sanctuary officials to assist with the candlelight procession. These duties include reciting some of the decades of the Rosary, carrying torches, carrying the statue of the Virgin Mary or joining the choir in front of the Rosary Basilica.
​On a designated evening, pilgrims from the Diocese will process under the Diocesan banner depitcing Our Lady of Lourdes. Members of Hospitalité, youth and other volunteers often assist in the procession, accompanying sick pilgrims in wheelchairs or chariots, ensuring everyone can participate in this spiritually moving experience. ​
​These various acts of participation are a sacred form of movement, a public testimony of faith and a way of following the Virgin Mary's request that people should "come in procession" to Lourdes.
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Photo Credit: Diocese of Meath
Photo Credit: Mac Diarmada