Some Practical Information

Pilgrimage

Please remember that Pilgrimage is a time for prayer, reflection and relaxation, and each of these aspects is acknowledged in our planned programme. It is not wise to regard the Pilgrimage as a spiritual marathon, where you have to attend ‘events’ most of the day, every day.

Medical Issues

If you have medical issues please speak with Deacon David Knight or Be Jackson, our two Health Team Leads Any member of the health team will be able to assist you, or provide details of what medical provision is available in Lourdes. All medical issues are dealt with confidentially.

Dehydration

Lourdes can be very hot in July so during the Pilgrimage try to drink plenty of water. Carry water where possible.

Sun protection

You will find that, at some of the liturgies and processions, you are out in the (very strong) sun for a considerable period of time, so make sure you have a hat, clothing that will protect your arms, face, neck and shoulders, and a high-factor sun block.

Processions

When we assemble for processions, please keep together, gathering behind the diocesan banners.

Torchlight (Marian) Procession

This takes place as darkness falls, and finishes after dark. Be aware that many people take part, most of them carrying lighted candles. Please be very careful.

Confession

A Chapel of Reconciliation is open every day in the Sanctuary. We also have our own Service of Reconciliation, including the opportunity for individual confession, on Tuesday evening.

Sanctuary information

Information about events in the Sanctuary can be found on Notice Boards by the Information Forum near Saint Joseph’s Gate.

Beggars

You may see some ‘beggars’ in Lourdes. Please do not give them any money as the Lourdes authorities already make provision for genuine cases.

Security

Please do take care of your belongings, for in Lourdes, as in any place where there are crowds, there may be pickpockets.

Road safety

There is a one-way system of traffic on many roads in Lourdes, but the thousands of pilgrims, and the many coaches, lorries, cars and wheelchairs, can make travelling in Lourdes difficult at times. Be alert at all times – always err on the side of caution. It is more important to get to somewhere safe and late, rather than not get there at all!!

Timings

Some of the timings for our liturgies and other events might change, due to circumstances outside of our control. Please be alert to any announcements of changes, usually made at the end of Masses, or during mealtimes in our hotel.

Telephones

If you want to ‘phone home whilst in Lourdes, the dialing code (for UK) is 00 44, then the appropriate dialing code for your area, leaving out the first 0. For example, a Nottingham number would be 00 44 115 followed by the rest of the number.

Lunch: 12.00 (12 noon)

Dinner: 19.00 (7pm)

Who’s Who?

Pilgrimage Leader Bishop Patrick McKinney

Pilgrimage Director: Father Gregory Tobin

Deputy Director: Father Simon Gillespie

Protection Co-ordinator: Mary Parr

Health Team Leads:

Bernadette (Be) Jackson

Deacon David Knight

Hospitalite Lead: Joe Hopkins

Schools’ Group Lead

Mary Parr

Sanctuary Lead

Charles Archer

Communications Lead

Naomi Roberts