Saint Bernadette of Lourdes’ Holy Relics to Embark on Historic Journey Across Dublin
In a momentous occasion for the faithful in Ireland, the holy relics of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes are set to embark on a pilgrimage across three Dublin parishes. This sacred journey marks the first time Saint Bernadette’s relics will be venerated in Ireland, bringing with it a sense of hope, joy, and inspiration for all who participate.
The Archbishop of Armagh, Eamon Martin, expressed his excitement for the upcoming visit, stating that the opportunity to venerate Saint Bernadette’s relics is a momentous occasion for the Irish faithful. The relics will journey from Lourdes, France, where Saint Bernadette had her divine encounters with Our Lady, before making their way to cathedrals and churches across Ireland from September 4 to November 5.
A Rare Opportunity for Dublin Parishioners to Venerate Saint Bernadette’s Relics
Dublin parishioners will have the unique opportunity to venerate Saint Bernadette’s relics at three different churches in the city. The relics will be on view at Our Lady of Victories Church in Glasnevin on September 25 and 26, inviting the faithful to come and pay their respects to the saint.
Following this, the relics will be brought to the Oblate Church of Mary Immaculate in Inchicore on October 23 and 24, providing another chance for Dublin residents to connect with the spirituality and blessings associated with Saint Bernadette. Lastly, the relics will be available for viewing at Adam and Eve’s, Franciscans, Merchant’s Quay on October 25 and 26, offering yet another opportunity for the faithful to partake in this sacred pilgrimage.
The Miraculous Apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes to Saint Bernadette
The apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 have become a cornerstone of the Catholic faith, with the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, France, serving as a sacred site of pilgrimage for millions of believers. Our Lady appeared to Bernadette a total of 18 times, delivering messages of faith, hope, and healing to the young French girl.
The authenticity of the apparitions was confirmed in 1866 by the Bishop of Tarbes, solidifying the significance of Lourdes as a holy site for believers around the world. Following the apparitions, Bernadette joined the Sisters of Charity of Nevers to live out her religious vocation, embodying the virtues of humility, devotion, and service to others.
A Blessing for All: Saint Bernadette’s Relics Bring Lourdes to Ireland
Bishop Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Achonry and President of the United Irish Pilgrimages to Lourdes, emphasized the importance of Saint Bernadette’s relics visiting Ireland, stating that it is a unique privilege for the faithful in the country. The relics will be brought back to Knock Airport after the Elphin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, allowing those who are unable to travel to Lourdes to experience the blessings and grace associated with the pilgrimage.
This year, Saint Bernadette’s relics will make their way around Ireland, offering the faithful an opportunity to partake in the sacred journey without leaving their own cities and towns. Bishop Doran expressed his hope that many people will be able to share in the blessings of the pilgrimage by coming together to pray with Saint Bernadette and experience the spiritual connection that she embodies.
Saint Bernadette, who passed away in 1879 from tuberculosis, was beatified in 1925 and canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1933, solidifying her status as a saint in the Catholic Church. Her life and devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes continue to inspire believers around the world, serving as a beacon of faith, hope, and love for all who seek her intercession.