52nd International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes

Opening Ceremony in the Underground Basilica

Pipe Sgt Anto Byrne leads the band through Rosary Square towards the Grotto

 

The National Colours on parade are carried by Cadets from the Military College

Flags and soldiers from many nations gather to celebrate Pentecost

Torchlight Procession and Light Show organised by the Austrian delegation

Cadets from École St Cyr at Coëtquidan carry a banner at the head of the Blessed Sacrament Procession

The Blessed Sacrament is carried by Most Rev Richard Moth (Bishop of the Forces, UK)

Catholic chaplains from Sweden with their colleagues from other faiths.

Fr Des and the Naval Cadets (part of the overland pilgrimage)

Café Jeanne d'Arc was a good "Forward Operation Base" most evenings.

The National Colours are carried by Cdt Hopkins

Anglophone Mass at the Grotto with soldiers and their chaplains from all continents.

Mass celebrated by Most Rev Timothy Broglio (US military bishop)

Mgr Luc Ravel inspects the various colour parties prior to laying a wreath at Place Peyramale

photos courtesy of VIRON, LACAZE, DURAND, McCabe

...more photos to follow from Fr Séamus Madigan's collection