Saturday was an early start for all with morning Mass at St Bernadette’s Church.

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Today, all pilgrims from the St Frai hospital had the opportunity to watch Vision- the musical story of Lourdes.

The modern musical, which is set in a bar in central Lourdes before the characters are whisked back to Bernadette's visions and the events of 1858; was on stage in London before moving to the Hotel Solitude last week for an 11-day stint.

Having the chance to watch live theatre is a new addition to our pilgrimage for 2025. Our assisted pilgrims are at the heart of our pilgrimage and they might not have the opportunity to do something like this at home. This event was added to the itinerary to provide them with even more special memories of their pilgrimage.

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Pilgrimage director Fr Grant Maddock said of the musical: "The muscial had a number of moving and pertinent moments, many pilgrims found it very powerful."

This afternoon, our youth enjoyed ‘grotto games’ by taking part in a series of activities – a chance for them to have fun, build on their teamworking skills and socialise with other youth coaches on the pilgrimage.

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During the evening, pilgrims took part in 'Lourdes, a place of prayer' which Fr Grant described as "utterly breathtaking".

The story of Lourdes and the encounter between Mary and Bernadette was replayed by a group of female leaders from our youth coaches.

Fr Grant added, "It was deeply moving and transformative. We had a packed chapel filled with people in tears and renewed in faith and hope.  A beautiful end to a wonderful day."