Thursday 23 July 2009

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes . . .


Today is the beginning of our Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Let us pray for Bishop Kieran and all those joining the pilgrimage, about 800 in total; sick and able-bodied pilgrims, doctors, nurses and helpers, including several pilgrims from our own parish.

We ask the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes:



O Holy Virgin, in the midst of your days of glory,
do not forget the sorrows of this earth.
Cast a merciful glance upon those who are suffering,
struggling against difficulties,
with their lips constantly pressed against life's bitter cup.

Have pity on our rebellious hearts.
Have pity on our weak faith.
Have pity on those we love.
Have pity on those who weep,
on those who pray, on those who fear.

Grant hope and peace to all.

Amen.

2 comments:

Flick Saunders said...

Greetings from Lourdes: day three now of our pilgrimage. To date we have experienced the wonder of the Blessed Sacrament procession, the healing peace of the reconciliation service and today the annointing of the sick - often regarded as the emotional and spiritual highlight of the pilgrimage.

Late evenings at the grotto have been particularly rewarding and peaceful as the overall numbers in Lourdes seem much fewer than I have ever experienced. Think of us tomorrow as the more able pilgrims will be up at 5.30am for the High Stations.

We have lit a candle for you all and arranged for a Mass to be offered for the parish and parishioners intentions.

Maria and Lewis said...

Maria & Lewis

Thankyou for your wonderful thoughts and especially the prayers.May Our Lady bless each and everyone of you. Enjoy the spiritual love and strength that Lourdes renders to all.