Extending the Invitation

The North American Volunteers extend the invitation to an ever-widening audience through:

  • Virtual Pilgrimages provide an "arm-chair" experience of Lourdes without travel for those unable to make the journey. The 90-minute event includesLourdes water, the Grotto Rock, Blessing of the Sick and the Rosary—just like Lourdes!
  • Speaking engagements, media appearances and presentations at conferences, parishes and schools in the United States, Canada and at U.S. Military Communities throughout Europe
  • Assistance to volunteers and pilgrims, as well as to independent pilgrims traveling to Lourdes "on their own"
  • In-house design, production and distribution of informational brochures, materials and a newsletter
  • Design and development of an up-to-date website to give the latest information about Lourdes and volunteer service

    • Volunteer Service and Specialty Pilgrimages

    To fulfill the apostolate mission to "serve the sick and suffering" at Lourdes:

  • Pilgrimage scheduling including travel, accommodations, volunteer service assignment assistance and orientation
  • Volunteer Escorts for all pilgrimages providing liaison assistance in Lourdes
  • Youth Catechesis and Volunteer Service Program with chaperone and director services
  • A priest, director and/or a physician escorts serving throughout pilgrimages
  • Fellowship and support offered in a "volunteer family" spirituality
  • Conducting no-cost tours of the Sanctuary at Lourdes, "In the Footsteps of Bernadette" and St. Gildard Convent at Nevers

    • Apostolate Administration

    To serve in simplicity, humility and obedience by:

  • Managing all aspects of pilgrimage organization, planning and scheduling
  • Coordinating volunteer registration and service with the Hospitalité Notre-Dame de Lourdes
  • Managing all operations, legal compliance, and fiscal responsibilities to support the good works of the apostolate, as well as providing planning and direction for future growth
  • With the exception of a small team of office employees, the Board of Directors, Spiritual Directors and apostolate administration is comprised of unpaid volunteers