Friday 25 July marked the second day of our 102ndpilgrimage to Lourdes.
Our 2025 pilgrimage is the first since the announcement of the miraculous cure of John (Jack) Traynor as the 71st miracle of Lourdes.
Coincidently, during our pilgrimage, the welcoming of Antonia Raco as the 72nd miracle of Lourdes was taking place, and several members of our pilgrimage were invited to witness this historic moment.
In April, it was announced that Antonia Raco, who suffered from Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), was cured in 2009 during her pilgrimage to Lourdes and today she returned to speak about her miracle.
Archbishop John Sherrington, Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm McMahon, pilgrimage director Fr Grant Maddock, clergy, volunteers and members of our youth heard first hand from Antonia about her miraculous trip 16 years ago.
Kevin Callaghan, member of the metropolitan tribunal and former chief brancardier of Liverpool hospitalite (following in the footsteps of Jack Traynor) attended the event in Lourdes. He said: "It was very much a privilege to be there. The medical information was really interesting, but the most powerful thing was to hear the account of the miracle from the lips of the cured lady herself. She said that her bishop had told her, "you know, don't you, Antonia, that this is a gift not just for you, but for everyone". That's true, because it's an affirmation of our faith in Almighty God."
Ben McMullen, coach leader of the youth coach 5 and deputy director of education for the Archdiocese of Liverpool also attended. He said: "It was a real privilege to be able to attend this morning’s press event to welcome the return of the 72nd Miracle of Lourdes, Mrs Antonia Raco.
"The first floor room of the Accueil Jean-Paul II building was packed with pilgrims from France, Italy and the UK, excited to hear Antonia’s story and to see her in person.
"I was among a number of pilgrims from Liverpool and it was lovely to hear a warm tribute paid to the archdiocese, and to Emeritus Archbishop Malcolm, for the way in which we celebrated 71st miracle cure of Jack Traynor in February.
"Antonia’s story was powerful, humbling and moving. She visited Lourdes on a stretcher in 2009 suffering from Primary Lateral Sclerosis. After bathing in the holy baths she experienced a change and a renewed sense of wellbeing. She regained her ability to walk and her previous symptoms disappeared.
"Antonia told her story with dignity, simplicity and gratitude. All present in the room were captivated by the sense of the Lord’s work in our midst.
"In over 35 years of being part of the Liverpool Archdiocesan pilgrimage, this morning’s encounter is one that will remain in my memory and heart for years to come."
You can read more information about the 72ndmiracle here: Antonia Raco- 72nd Lourdes miracle
Day two in Lourdes also marked the first day of official duty for our youth. They joined the hospitalite team to help assisted pilgrims in the St Frai hospital and also supported those in hotels.
The Mass of Welcoming and Anointing was held at St Bernadette’s Church, followed by the annual pilgrimage photograph.
Archbishop John Sherrington’s homily from the Mass can be read here: Mass of Welcome and Anointing | Pastoral Letter
