Lourdes

The Cork and Ross Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from Friday 18th September to Wednesday 23rd September 2026 under the patronage of Bishop Fintan Gavin.

A Mass of Thanksgiving for those who travelled on last year’s pilgrimage was celebrated last Friday evening in the Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield. The gathering provided an opportunity for pilgrims to give thanks for the many blessings received in Lourdes and also marked the official launch of the 2026 diocesan pilgrimage.

Following the Mass, refreshments were served in the parish centre where pilgrims had the opportunity to reconnect, renew friendships and share memories of their time in Lourdes.

In his homily, Bishop Fintan reflected on the special spirit of the pilgrimage and encouraged those present to invite others to experience Lourdes for themselves.

Bishop Fintan blessing those present at the Mass of Thanksgiving

Our fifth day in Lourdes was filled with tenderness, prayer, and hope as we reflected on the healing love of God and the compassion of Our Lady.

The morning began with a deeply moving Mass of the Anointing of the Sick. Many of our pilgrims received the sacrament, surrounded by the prayers and support of our diocesan family. It was a powerful reminder that in moments of weakness, God draws close to us, offering strength and peace.

Carol receiving the oil blessing from Bishop Fintan

Sophie, Nora and Conor playing at the Grotto Mass

Our fourth day in Lourdes began in the stillness of early morning with Mass at the Grotto.

We were deeply moved to know that so many from home were able to join us through the livestream, sharing in this pilgrimage journey.

Later in the morning, pilgrims prayed the Stations of the Cross. Some climbed the steep hillside for the High Stations, walking the rugged path with quiet determination, while others followed the Low Stations across the river — a gentler route that allowed everyone to journey prayerfully at their own pace. Both paths offered powerful opportunities to reflect on the suffering of Christ and the crosses each of us carry.

Day three began with the International Mass in the Basilica of Saint Pius X, where thousands of pilgrims from across the world gathered to worship together.

Hearing the prayers and hymns in many different languages was a powerful reminder that, though we come from different places, we are united in the one faith.

In the afternoon, we set out on a special walking pilgrimage — “In the Footsteps of Saint Bernadette”.

We visited the Boly Mill where she was born, the The Cachot where her family lived in poverty, and the Parish Church of the Sacred Heart where she was baptised.

Our pilgrims on tonight's Torchlight Marian Procession. Watch the full highlights video by clicking here.

Our second day in Lourdes began with the Opening Mass, where the pilgrims of the Diocese of Cork and Ross gathered in prayer as one diocesan family.

It was a beautiful celebration of faith, hope, and unity as we placed the days ahead in the care of Our Lady. The hands of our helpers were blessed, a reminder of the generous work they will carry out over these days in caring for our assisted pilgrims.

After Mass, we gathered for our official group photograph — a joyful moment that captured the spirit of friendship and community at the heart of this pilgrimage.

Opening Mass of the pilgrimage. Watch the full highlights by clicking here.

Watch the highlights video of our journey to Lourdes here

Today marks the beginning of our Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, as over 450 pilgrims from across the Diocese of Cork and Ross have travelled to come together in prayer, hope, and joy.

With hearts full of faith and trust, we begin this pilgrimage carrying the prayers and intentions of our families, parishes, Families of Parishes, and communities at home.

We warmly invite you to join us each day in spirit and prayer as we journey on this very special pilgrimage.

You can keep up to date with the Cork and Ross pilgrimage over the coming days through the Lourdes livestream.