Today will see large numbers of pilgrims in Lourdes to mark the 150th anniversary of the first appearance of Our Lady to Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes. The celebrations will continue throughout this year's pilgrimage season.
Our Lady announced herself to Bernadette as "I am the Immaculate Conception". She told Bernadette to bring to the attention of the world the necessity of prayer and penance. The response of the faithful has found expression in pilgrimage and the care of the sick and disabled. Lourdes remains a vibrant centre of pilgrimage and devoted faith, the scene of miraculous returns to health or peace of mind and the contented acceptance of God's will. It has been the subject of encyclicals by Popes Pius XII and John XXIII.
"God of mercy, we celebrate the feast of Mary, the sinless Mother of God. May her prayers help us to rise above our human weakness." (Opening Prayer of this Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes)
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