On the first weekend in May, Lourdes was again bustling with pilgrims in Order of Malta Uniforms and carrying flags for the 67th international pilgrimage of the Order of Malta to the sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France. The Grand Master Fra’ John T. Dunlap led the delegation, together with Grand Commander Fra’ Emmanuel Rousseau, Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, Grand Hospitaller Josef D. Blotz and Receiver of the Common Treasure Fabrizio Colonna.

36 pilgrims from the Australian Association joined over 7,000 Order of Malta pilgrims from 43 countries, including 1,200 sick, 440 doctors and healthcare workers, 250 religious, 500 young volunteers and 200 children.

In addition to the formal celebrations which included the Eucharistic Procession with the sick to the Sanctuary, the Pontifical High Mass in the St. Pius X Basilica, Mass at the Grotto and the Marian torchlight procession, the Australian itinerary included visits to the sacred baths, Stations of the Cross, the Church of Saint John the Baptist in Bartres, a walking tour of Lourdes and wine tasting with the Slovakian Association. All these activities were enriched by the fellowship attendee experienced with their fellow pilgrims and the sick they accompanied.

Grand Master Fra’ John T. Dunlap emphasised the significance of the initiative, which this year falls at an exceptional time in the life of the Church: “While on pilgrimage, each of us is invited to rediscover the mercy and tenderness of God in a world so often marked by suffering and division. In this spirit, the passing of the Holy Father takes on a profound significance. His life and pontificate were a living testament to that very grace — a grace that embraces, heals, and opens paths of hope.” In this regard, he added, “that legacy lives on in every volunteer who, whether joining us for the first time or returning once again, offers their time and strength throughout this Pilgrimage to care for the weakest and most vulnerable — many having travelled from all corners of the world to be here.”

Enjoy our gallery of images from this year’s pilgrimage.