“I took over running the pilgrimage in 1999 – back in the last century!

“When I became director of the diocesan youth service, Archbishop Patrick Kelly gave me a simple brief: ‘Evangelise young people.’ Taking responsibility for the youth pilgrimage was part of that role.

“My first visit to Lourdes was in 1987 as a young pilgrim. I travelled on Coach 1, departing from Liverpool. From there, I became a leader, then a chaplain after my ordination in 1995, and eventually director of the pilgrimage.

“There’s a photograph of me in Lourdes as a young person with Fr Pat Harnett, and it’s crazy to think that just 12 years later I was doing Fr Pat’s job.

“I was fortunate enough to lead the pilgrimage for 13 years. During that time, the pilgrimage grew from six youth coaches to nine, with three new coaches established in different parts of the archdiocese. There was a real sense of momentum and enthusiasm.

“I also developed the train team, which later became the plane team before being renamed the St Bernadette Team. This group brought together older youth people and acted as a bridge between the yellow shirts and the hospitalité team.

“One of the greatest joys during my time as director was witnessing a deepening sense of spirituality and unity across the coaches and emphasising that we are all part of our pilgrimage.

“The highlight of Lourdes for me has always been seeing young people discover a faith that was already present in their lives but becomes more visible and meaningful during the week.

“I remember one young person saying to me, ‘I find God in every person I wheel around Lourdes.’ It was a privilege to be present at that moment of faith and discovery.

“When I ask young people about their own highlights, the answers are almost always consistent: night prayer and reconciliation. Taking time to stop, reflect and pray amid a busy pilgrimage means a great deal to them, and those experiences stay with them long after they return home.

“This year, I’m looking forward to returning to Lourdes as chaplain of Coach 2. It will be my fourth year with the coach, and it’s especially meaningful because several young people from my parish will be travelling too.

“I’m also excited to be part of the 50th anniversary celebrations. I led the pilgrimage during its 25th anniversary, when a number of special celebrations were woven throughout the week, and I’m looking forward to being part of the events and activities planned this year to mark this important milestone.

“The pilgrimage remains as alive and vibrant as ever. Never underestimate young people – their desire to serve others, to deepen their faith, and to be part of something bigger than themselves.”