Throughout the morning of Thursday 23 July, youth pilgrims began arriving in Lourdes after completing their 24-hour coach journey from the archdiocese.

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Once checked in, they took part in guided tours of Lourdes, with first-time pilgrims getting to know the town with the help of those who have visited before.

During the day, pilgrims who were able participated in the High Stations of the Cross.

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Meanwhile, another specialist flight departed from Liverpool John Lennon Airport in the evening, bringing more pilgrims to Lourdes.

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Later that evening, the youth pilgrims gathered for Mass in St Bernadette's Church, where they received a blessing of their hands ahead of their work with the sick during the pilgrimage.

Following Mass, each coach group took part in night prayer, providing an opportunity to pause, reflect and pray together after several busy days of travelling and settling into Lourdes.

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General pilgrims also celebrated Mass in St Joseph's Chapel, joining together in prayer as the pilgrimage continued.

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