If we made a tally of holy shrines and Marian apparition sites around the world, France would seem to have more than any other
country. There is the apparition in Lourdes. When you visit Lourdes go the whole nine yards. Begin with an early dawn Mass at the Grotto of the apparition. Our tour escort, Raki Madelo, (www.catholic-travel.com) arranged this and our pilgrim chaplain, Fr. Dave Concepcion, celebrated mass for our Mariang Ina Ko group. Fr. Dave said, “When you pray, think of Mama Mary sitting next to you and praying with you. Remember that she prays with us.” Follow this with a novena, rosary and procession in the evening (9 p.m.). We braved the pouring rain holding candles that flickered as we were soaked to the skin. Bathe in the healing waters where an international host of smiling and helpful volunteers will assist you. Be sure to fall in line by 1:30 p.m. because the line gets long by the time the bath doors are opened at 2 p.m. I experienced my little miracle here when I emerged from the sub-zero pool completely drip-dry and exhibiting normal body temperature. Go to confession in a gray stone building near the main square. There are multi-lingual priests who quickly put you at ease and help you make a good confession. Visit the Blessed Sacrament, which is located inside a white marquee with a view of the flowing river on one side. There’s a way of the cross for those who’d like to make an extra sacrifice. Offer candles at the grotto for your special petitions. Candles come in different sizes (from three euros up) the biggest has a burning time of up to six months. Visit the little chapel in the crypt that was the first church built in the shrine and where St. Bernadette prayed. Visit also the main Rosary Church with a new facade done in mosaic that was added to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the apparition.
Finally, take a long walk outside the main tourist hub of hotels, restaurants and shops. Explore the village for other points of interest and cheaper souvenirs. Glass and plastic bottles are everywhere and they are handy to use as containers for holy water that flow from the grotto itself. There are water stations with faucets to help control the flow of water and save on its consumption.