Well, it's another lovely morning here in Lourdes. We celebrated our 'Grotto' Mass today. Very often this Mass, because of the large numbers present, has to happen on the prairie across the river. This morning, however, we were able to celebrate in the Grotto itself. We shared the Mass with the dioceses of Lancaster and Brentwood and the Order of Malta Volunteers and the chief celebrant was Bishop Michael Campbell of Lancaster. The Gospel was the story of the visitation and Bishop Michael picked up on this in his homily. Mary was completely obedient to the will of God and Jesus made it clear that if we want to be considered as members of His family, we have to do the same. Bishop Michael went on to say that we can have no better teacher in this than our Blessed Lady who gave her fiat to God, even though she can hardly have known how difficult the way would be for her at times. She shows us how to live out the will of God in the everyday circumstances of our lives and, in Lourdes, we're in a good place to ask for her help.
After lunch we turned our attention to the Stations of the Cross. This devotion is always a great favourite among Catholics. Some of the pilgrims, especially those in wheelchairs set out for the lower Stations on the other side of the river from the Grotto. These run along a level piece of land. The rest of us headed up to what is known as the high Stations.
Phew! Not only was it very high, it was very hot. Fortunately most of us managed to find a piece of shade each time we stopped and it was a very good experience to be praying together on the mountain.. We were led by Bishop John Sherrington who was ably assisted by our Président d'Hospitalité, Bernard Lavery.
Tonight Westminster had the honour of leading the Marian torchlight procession. As you can imagine this is a very popular event and we all turned out in force for the occasion. This procession is one of the most beautiful events in Lourdes and obeys Our Lady's command to 'come here in procession.' It was a great occasion.
