Relics of St Bernadette of Lourdes to visit Silvermines

THE International Marian shrine at Lourdes has always had a special place in the hearts of Irish people.

Countless Irish pilgrims have made the journey to the shrine for the last 166 years since the apparitions of Our Lady to St. Bernadette in 1858.

This year the people of Ireland will have the opportunity to welcome the spirit of Lourdes and St. Bernadette to a local church in their own diocese.

In September and October this year, the relics of St Bernadette will journey on pilgrimage to Ireland for the very first time, visiting every diocese in the country.

"This very special, once-in-a-lifetime event," said a statement issued this week by the office of the Diocese of Killaloe in Ennis, “will provide an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the special gifts and charisms of Lourdes in their diocese.

“This visit is an opportunity and a way to share the grace of an encounter with Mary as Bernadette experienced it, to find in this encounter peace and joy of heart and to become credible and courageous witnesses of love.

“The relics will be in Killaloe Diocese on Monday 9th September and Tuesday 10th September.

“The Cathedral of Ss. Peter and Paul in Ennis, Co. Clare will welcome the relics on Monday 9th at 10.30am and they will depart for the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Silvermines, Co. Tipperary following the 11am Mass on Tuesday 10th September arriving in Silvermines at 3pm.

“The relics will remain in Silvermines for veneration until Wednesday 11th September at 12 noon before departing for Limerick Diocese.

“During the visit of the relics there will be opportunities for people to come to venerate the relics privately as well as participating in liturgies that will be reminiscent of the Lourdes pilgrimage experience.

“The intention is to take Lourdes to the faithful, especially those who may not have the ability of going to Lourdes in person.
“It is in the music, prayer, processions and gestures that this unique spirit will be shared.”

On Tuesday, 3rd September at 10.45am, a ceremony of sending took place at the Lourdes Grotto, where the Sanctuary Of Lourdes entrusted the relics of Saint Bernadette to the Diocese of Elphin which is bringing them to Ireland.