Sunday in Lourdes is always a special day as it means an early start for the Grotto Mass.

The whole pilgrimage gathered together in the place where Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette on 11 February 1958.

During his homily, Archbishop John Sherrington said: “Pope Leo has told us to disarm our words and disarm our world. Disarming our words means no more gossip which damages peoples’ reputations and damages attitudes to one another, no more harsh words spoken to those we love which cause hurt and harm; the tongue can be a vicious instrument. Disarming our world means beginning to disarm our nations, becoming bridge-builders of peace, reducing the arms race and living in harmony with one another. This is a sign of the kingdom. Just as St Bernadette found her deep joy in Jesus, so can we if we become peace builders with one another.”

The full homily can be read here: Mass at the Grotto | Pastoral Letter

During Mass, Archbishop John read out a Papal Blessing from Pope Leo XIV for the 50th anniversary of the youth pilgrimage. Pope Leo gave a blessing to all those participating in the pilgrimage - a truly special moment.

Following Mass, the whole pilgrimage gathered together again for the annual group photograph – a special keepsake for all to mark this milestone year.

In the evening, everyone joined together for one of the most special times of the pilgrimage – the torchlight procession. Unlike earlier in the week, the rain stayed away, making it a more pleasant evening for all!

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