Who among us is not suffering? Whether our sufferings are physical, psychological, emotional, or a combination thereof, our suffering is a part of our earthly life.

Our Catholic faith teaches us that suffering has value, and is inevitable. On earth, Christ Himself suffered, His Holy and Immaculate Mother suffered, and we too will suffer. We know that we must accept this reality, just as Our Lord and Our Lady did, because to love God is to accept what He allows and to trust in His Providence. As St. Bernadette once said, "…here below, Love without suffering does not exist."

But it is not easy to suffer. It is not easy to struggle. It is not easy to endure hardships and the temptations and doubts that sometimes go along with them. We long for healing, for rest, and for peace. We go to Lourdes because Our Lady appeared there and asked that people come in procession. As people went in procession, they found healing, rest, and peace. People today find the same wonderful graces. Sometimes, they find that their illnesses are miraculously cured. Sometimes, they find that they are renewed with the grace to suffer well and even to be grateful for their sufferings. Often, they find conversion, bringing themselves ever closer to Our Loving and Merciful God in Heaven.

Perhaps Our Lady is inviting you to go to Lourdes? We are always happy to help those who say yes to Our Lady's loving invitation to Lourdes. Even if you think pilgrimage is not possible for you (yes, even if you are unable to go with tour and pilgrimage companies because they cannot accommodate your needs), please learn more about our Special Needs Pilgrimages to and from Lourdes. Those who identify themselves as Handicapped travel on those pilgrimages as well, and find the caring support that they need to make this holy journey.

If you'd like to experience Lourdes at home, please take look at our Virtual Pilgrimage schedule to see if there may be a Virtual Pilgrimage happening near you. We would be blessed to see you there!

If you would like Lourdes Water, we would be most delighted to send you some. Please feel more than welcome to send us your prayer request as well.