Archbishop Martin celebrates Mass at the opening of the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes

08 Sep 2010

PRESS RELEASE
8 September 2010

Archbishop Martin celebrates Mass at the opening of the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes

At Mass to mark the opening of the Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes this morning (Wednesday) Archbishop Diarmuid Martin said people’s lives have become precarious in the economic crisis.

In his homily in Lourdes (attached), Archbishop Martin said a financial crisis is not just about banks and institutions, but about people’s livelihoods, jobs, mortgages and security. “We remember those who have suffered financially, but above all those who have suffered and still suffer in the depths of their personality. We remember those whose lives have become ever more precarious.”

Archbishop Martin said that the Dublin pilgrimage was a moment of prayer and he urged those taking part to cherish the moment while they are there. Addressing the sick who had made the journey, he said the sick are at the heart of our prayers, “But we also need prayers of the sick and we count on those prayers, that we can allow the generosity of God to bring humility and a spirit of service into our lives.”

Almost 2,000 people left Dublin for Lourdes yesterday to take part in the 61st Pilgrimage from the Archdiocese of Dublin which runs until Sunday.

The annual September pilgrimage is one of the biggest events in the Dublin Diocesan calendar.

Nearly 180 sick pilgrims are taking part this year, supported by over 500 volunteers, made up of nurses and doctors, male and female helpers, known as handmaids and brancardiers, and a team of chaplains.

A further 200 young people also assist in the care of the sick pilgrims and many of these are from secondary schools and colleges from around the Diocese. The balance of the pilgrimage is made up of Parish Groups and individuals from every corner of the Diocese.

Crosscare, the social care agency of the Diocese will once again be sending representatives to Lourdes along with the Diocesan Office for Evangelisation. Music for the pilgrimage will be led by the Dublin Lourdes choir.

ENDS

Notes to editors:
Further information:
Communications Office 01 8360723, email [email protected],  web www.dublindiocese.ie