Lourdes
Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
18th – 24th June 2026
Led by Bishop Brendan Leahy
Each June, the Diocese of Limerick journeys together to Lourdes, joining millions of pilgrims from across the world at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in the south-west of France. In 2026, the Diocesan Pilgrimage will take place from Thursday 19th June to Wednesday 24th June .
This annual pilgrimage is a time of prayer, renewal, companionship and service. It is open to pilgrims of all ages and backgrounds, including those who may require medical or personal assistance.
Assisted Pilgrims
A central part of the Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage is welcoming Assisted Pilgrims—those who require wheelchair, nursing or general assistance.
Assisted Pilgrims are accommodated in the Accueil Notre Dame, a purpose-built facility within the Sanctuary grounds designed to provide care and support.
The word “Accueil” means “welcome”, reflecting the spirit of hospitality that defines Lourdes.
Our pilgrimage includes:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Carers
- Brancardiers (male helpers)
- Handmaidens (female helpers)
- Youth volunteers
Together, they ensure that Assisted Pilgrims can fully participate in the spiritual and communal life of Lourdes.
The Story of Lourdes
Lourdes is one of the world’s most visited Marian shrines. Between 11th February and 16th July 1858, a 14-year-old girl, Bernadette Soubirous, reported 18 apparitions of “a lady” at the Grotto of Massabielle.
In 1862, following investigation, the Bishop of Lourdes declared the apparitions worthy of belief. During the apparitions, the Lady identified herself as “the Immaculate Conception.”
Today, pilgrims continue to visit the Grotto to pray, light candles, and draw water from the spring uncovered by Bernadette.
The Sanctuary Experience
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes includes:
- The Grotto of the Apparitions, the heart of the shrine
- The Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes (Upper Basilica)
- The Rosary Basilica (Lower Basilica)
- The Basilica of St. Pius X (Underground Basilica)
- The Crypt on the Rock of Massabielle
Pilgrims take part in daily Mass, the Blessed Sacrament Procession (5pm), and the Torchlight Marian Procession (9pm).
These moments of shared prayer are often the spiritual highlight of the pilgrimage.
Would you or a member of your family like to participate?
We invite you to prayerfully consider joining the Diocese of Limerick in Lourdes from 19th–24th June 2026, as together we place our intentions before Our Lady and grow in faith, hope and charity.
How to Register or Find Out More
If you would like to join the 2026 Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes or receive further information, please contact:
Limerick Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage
Diocesan Office
St. Munchin’s College
Corbally, Limerick
Tel: 061 350000
Email: lourdespilgrimage@limerickdiocese.org