In his statement Archbishop Martin said, “During September and October, the holy relics of Saint Bernadette will undertake a pilgrimage, journeying from Lourdes, France – for the first time – to cathedrals and churches across Ireland. The visit of the relics will be a fitting prelude to the launch of the Jubilee Year 2025 with its theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’.
“The pilgrimage around Ireland of Saint Bernadette’s relics will be a source of hope, great joy and inspiration, especially for the many people of Ireland who have travelled to Lourdes over the years and for the dedicated groups across the island who work all year round to plan pilgrimages at parish and diocesan level. Of course Lourdes is synonymous with care and love for sick and disabled persons, and is a special sanctuary for those who struggle with worries or decisions of one kind or another.”
Welcoming the holy relics into the island Bishop Doran said,“There is a well established tradition of people bringing religious objects home from Lourdes, to share with family members and friends. This year, we have the unique privilege of bringing home the relics of Saint Bernadette, as we fly back into Knock Airport after the Elphin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. Many people are unable to travel on pilgrimage to Lourdes, but this year Lourdes will come to them, as the Relics of Saint Bernadette make their way around Ireland. We hope that many people will be able to share in the blessings of the Pilgrimage, by gathering to pray with Saint Bernadette in cities and towns across the country.”
To read full text of the statements welcoming the holy relics, click here.
To view details of the pilgrimage, click here.
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