The theme in Lourdes this year 2006 was ‘keep your lamps lit’ (Luke 12:35).

Jesus spoke these words to his disciples. He is saying ‘have courage - do not give up! Do not fall asleep! Or darkness will overcome you! Keep Your Lamps Lit’

It was suggested that four places should be visited in Lourdes - the Grotto, the Rosary Basilica, the Reconciliation Chapel and the Evening Torchlight Procession - all have ‘light’ as their focal point. Candles burn and hopes and prayers are high.

Did the youth achieve this? They did, by doing a fabulous job, tirelessly giving their time and wonderful faith and respect for the VIPs (as we tend to call the sick pilgrims) who stay at the Acceuil St Frai in Lourdes. They enjoyed each other’s company, they laughed, entertained and sang and shared very special moments throughout the week, which only they will understand. They took part in all aspects of Lourdes and therefore did ‘keep their lamps lit.’

The teamwork was wonderful and everyone pulled together and supported and looked after each other in their teams and, as you can imagine, laughed, joked, sang and had a drink together. They also had their disagreements, but these were soon resolved. They worked alongside the brancardiers and handmaids, doctors and nursing staff in the hospital and gained a great insight into the workings of the hospital. Thanks to them for the encouragement they all gave to the young people.

This year each team also managed to visit Bartres to see the place where Bernadette stayed, and visited the house where she lived with her aunt - some also managed the walk to the Sheepfold, where she looked after the sheep. The ‘High Stations’ or the new ‘Low Stations’ (of the Cross) were undertaken by each team - leading the prayers and becoming totally involved - showing the commitment and wonderful spirit that surrounded the group this year.

Some of the comments from the first time youth follow:

• I think the pilgrimage has made me a much more spiritual person. It has showed me that you can get a lot out of helping a person.
• It isn’t what I expected. I knew the pilgrimage would be hard work, but I didn’t think I would come back feeling so good about myself. I have enjoyed working with the VIP’s; they are a real laugh to be with.
• A nice surprise that has come out of it is the amount of nice people I have made friends with. Everyone spoke to me, and made me happy.
• I just want to say thank you for taking me on the pilgrimage. It was the best week I’ve ever had!
• It helped me to realise just how many young Catholics there are and seeing their faith helped me to strengthen mine.
• The people are friendly and relaxed and my team leaders were excellent - I couldn’t have asked for better!
• This trip has really made a difference to me. It has been very rewarding and helped me improve my communication skills with people. It has made me consider doing medicine more!!
• The trip was not how I expected; it was much better and fun. I am glad I came and may come back next year.
• Personally, the pilgrimage helped me to realise certain factors about my spiritual life, as it was the right setting to contemplate issues. Regarding the spiritual side I found the night prayer particularly important and beneficial.
• Yes, daily Mass, Service of Reconciliation and the anointing of the sick, made me aware of the RICHNESS OF OUR FAITH; Sr Carmel’s input was excellent. The night prayer was lovely especially in the Grotto late at night.
• Yes, it made me take time to pause and reflect on what my vocation is.

[The above were taken from the feedback, which we take on the journey home from Lourdes.]

The Youth were also asked to pray for vocations this year and to take this theme to the Grotto. Each was given a card as a memento with this short verse:

What should I be?
Everyone is called to a Vocation: a place or state of life in which God wishes a person to work. To know ones particular vocation is often difficult. One’s good inclinations, the opportunities of the moment, the needs of the Church and society, one’s talents and accomplishments - these and many other factors may be indications from God of a vocation. Only with prayer for light and with good spiritual direction can the decision about one’s vocation to made prudently. Welsh Youth Pilgrimage - July 2006

Comments from an adult first-time pilgrim . . .
I travelled to Lourdes in July with the Welsh National Pilgrimage for the first time. It was a wonderful experience for me and I would like to go there again and help as a carer. The Youth Group impressed me very much, the care and companionship they had for the sick and disabled was wonderful to see. One is hoping to become a doctor and would like to travel to Lourdes to help the sick after qualifying. A great experience! Wendy Rees, Townhill.

Thanks
May we take this opportunity to thank both our Chaplains - Fr Ross Patterson and Sr Carmel Reynolds for their wonderful ministry. The Night Prayers, which took place every evening, were a great joy. Also all the Co-ordinators and Team Leaders who did a brilliant job, the adult supporters who encouraged and worked alongside each team. Also, all the supporters and helpers who are unable to travel to Lourdes with us each year, but who work tremendously hard throughout the year to raise funds and who encourage and support everyone. And finally but not the least, all the Youth who worked tirelessly on the journey and throughout the week which turned out to be very hot! God bless you all!
We know that you are ‘keeping your lamps lit.’

Val Barry, August 2006

The complete Youth to Lourdes group including some of the senior helpers (in blue), together with Archbishop Peter Smith, Bishop Mark, Francis Kerr, Fr Jason Jones, Fr Timothy Cullen CP, and other priests and deacons.