A NEW dimension to Limerick’s devotion to the Lourdes Pilgrimage will unfold this week when the 2020 event goes online from Friday.
There may not be the 2,000km journey and all the excitement that goes with it because of the Covid-19 restrictions but there will be an opportunity for a spiritual connection for pilgrims across the internet.
Under the Patronage of Bishop Brendan Leahy and Lourdes Director Fr. Frank O’Dea, the virtual pilgrimage runs from Friday June 19 to Monday June 22, with celebrations being streamed live on the Limerick Diocese Facebook page.
Bishop Leahy said that while many Church celebrations were missed during the Covid-19 lockdown, the Lourdes pilgrimage was a huge loss to the 500 pilgrims who make this special journey each year.
“While we can’t make it to Lourdes this year, we will be there in spirit over the course of the four days as we join for these special celebrations. We can’t replicate Lourdes but we are going to have celebrations which will strike a special Lourdes chord for pilgrims.
“Our afternoon liturgies will seek to reflect the traditional Lourdes programme as much as possible as well. Many want to go on the pilgrimage each year but for one reason or another can’t join us. While it’s not the same this year, they can get a real taste of the special celebration we have annually from Friday. We would welcome all and hope that this conjures up another positive moment from this Covid period.”
