Overview & Itinerary
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Accommodation
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Highlight
The annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from Friday 26th June – Thursday 2th July 2026
The Pilgrimage, under the leadership of Bishop Ralph, provides a unique opportunity for us to gather, pray and journey together in
faith. It is a time to stand apart from the rigours of life and seek the peace, healing, and grace which a pilgrimage experience can
afford.
Pilgrims come from all parts of the Diocese and beyond. In Lourdes we encounter pilgrims from all over the world.
Our assisted pilgrims, those who may be elderly, frail, or dependent are supported by our own team of willing volunteers, including doctors, nurses, other allied health professionals and many others with different backgrounds and experiences.
All volunteers are self-funding and give up their own time to support those who are less able. They serve in a spirit inspired by love of God and love of neighbour.
Save the date for our pilgrimage pre-meeting.
Saturday 6 June at the The McAuley Catholic High School, Cantley lane, Doncaster DN3 3QF
About our pilgrimage
During our pilgrimage, there will be a lot to see and experience. Our pilgrimage and tour of Lourdes includes visits to the Basilica of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
We take part in the Masses, the Stations of the Cross and the blessing of the sick, visit the Grotto of Massabeille where the apparitions of Our Lady took place.
You will have the chance to drink from the spring at the base of the Grotto. The original spring that Bernadette located is still visible, protected by a glass cover and illuminated.
Visit the baths where hundreds of miraculous healings have taken place.
We participate in the evening torchlight processions which is a wonderful experience. Our Lady requested that these processions take place when She appeared to Bernadette.
We will also offer a walking tour to the Boly Mill, where Bernadette was born, and to the Cachot, an abandoned prison where Bernadette’s family lived.
We will see the hospice where Bernadette attended school and made her First Holy Communion. After the apparitions she also lived here until the age of twenty two, when she went to Nevers to join the Sisters of Charity of Nevers.
With any free time available, we are pleased to offer optional excursions to Bartres where we will see where Bernadette lived for a period of her life. Other optional excursions to Gavanie may also be offered.
This programme is subject to change.
