This morning, we gathered for Mass at the Grotto, a celebration at the heart of our Diocese of Cork and Ross Pilgrimage to Lourdes. In the place where Our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette, and where countless pilgrims have come with their burdens and hopes, we gathered as part of that great procession of faith, carrying with us the prayers of our families, friends, parishes and Families of Parishes across the diocese.

In his homily, Bishop Fintan invited us to reflect not only on what we had brought to Lourdes, but also on what we would take home with us: “We are being sent back to Cork and Ross carrying something of what we have received here – the faith and simplicity of Bernadette, the tenderness of Mary, the friendship we have shared with one another and, above all, a renewed awareness of the presence and love of Jesus Christ.”

Lourdes Grotto Mass 2026

Mass with the Anointing of the Sick

Our third day in Lourdes was a reminder of why so many people come to this special place, seeking comfort in times of suffering, strength in times of uncertainty and a renewed sense of hope.

The morning began with an alternative Stations of the Cross held indoors due to restrictions in preparation for the visit of Pope Leo XIV. Our student and young adult helpers processed with the Stations, bringing each one forward to the Pilgrim Cross, blessed by Archdeacon Kerry Murphy O’Connor in 2014, as a reminder that we can bring our pain and worries to Jesus who offers us the hope of healing and new life.

Fr. Charlie Kiely led pilgrims on a walking tour in the footsteps of St. Bernadette to learn more about Bernadette and the way in which God chose her to share Our Lady’s message with the world.

The second day of the Diocese of Cork and Ross Pilgrimage to Lourdes brought pilgrims together for a day of prayer and reflection, culminating in the Candlelight Rosary Procession, led by our diocese.

The morning began with the International Mass at the St. Pius X Underground Basilica, where our pilgrims joined thousands of people from across the world in celebrating the Eucharist. Many pilgrims remarked on how moving it was to see people from across the world, speaking different languages and coming from different cultures, united in prayer. It was a powerful reminder of the universal Church and the faith that connects us.

Later in the day, pilgrims gathered at Côté Carmel for a moving Penitential Service. Amid the busyness of the pilgrimage, this was an important opportunity for personal reflection, reconciliation and an encounter with God’s love and mercy.

Cork and Ross had the honour of leading the Candlelight Rosary Procession tonight

The Blessed Sacrament Procession, which was led by the Diocese of Cork and Ross, as pilgrims from across the world gathered in prayer.

Whatever You Are Carrying, the Lord Is With You

Today marked the first full day of the Diocese of Cork and Ross Pilgrimage to Lourdes. Over 450 pilgrims, including assisted pilgrims, doctors, nurses, young adult and student helpers, adult helpers, carers and parishioners from across the diocese, gathered this morning for our Opening Mass at Côté Grotte.

People come to Lourdes for many different reasons, each carrying their own prayers, hopes and intentions. During his homily, Bishop Fintan reminded us that, whatever we may be carrying, the Lord is with us: “The Lord is with you in your illness and in your worries. The Lord is with you in your questions. The Lord is with you when your faith feels strong and when it feels fragile.” These words were particularly meaningful as we brought the prayers and petitions entrusted to us by people at home to the Grotto this afternoon, remembering all those who could not be with us in Lourdes.

Are you considering the Poor Clare vocation or would you like to know more about the enclosed contemplative life of a religious sister?

You are invited to join the Sisters for a:

Vocations Afternoon

Saturday 3 October 2026

2:00pm to 4:00pm

at the Poor Clare Monastery, College Road, Cork

Contact the Poor Clares for more information