A popular Catholic pilgrimage destination is in Lourdes, France. In addition, it is also one of the most popular catholic shrines in the world. Bernadette discovered the site for the Lourdes Sacred grotto. To begin with, she revealed a spring in the area. In fact, it was not in existence prior to her revelation.
The Lourdes sacred grotto is now one of the more popular Catholic shrines in France. Millions come to drink its water. It has healing powers. A statue of the Virgin Mary was erected in 1864 at the Lourdes sacred grotto. It is present at that location today.
Catholic Pilgrimage Destination
The evening procession is the highlight of this Catholic pilgrimage destination. It takes place every day from 5:00 pm. The procession begins in the Lourdes sacred grotto. The sick and disabled are at the front. Thereafter, followed by several different groups. The procession ends in the underground Basilica. The Basilica of St. Pius was constructed almost entirely underground. It is a sight to behold. As it is a unique type of architecture.
It can accommodate the large crowds that visit the popular Catholic shrine. The sanctuary is situated on a raised platform. The ceiling is low. It is supported by pre-stressed concrete pillars. They meet 29 concrete beams that cross the ceiling. In fact, it gives the impression of an upside-down ship. This design creates a very large open space. It provides maximum visibility from any part of the nave. When full it can accommodate up to 25,000 worshipers.
Lourdes sacred grotto
The masses are a popular feature of this Catholic pilgrimage destination. In fact, there are International masses in six (6) languages. The masses are in English and French. In addition, there are Italian, Spanish, German and Dutch masses. The masses are held simultaneously on Sunday mornings. The choir is open to anyone who arrives early. You can rehearse with the choir and sing with people of all 6 languages. The choir has an excellent view of the mass.
There are also nightly candlelight processions. The procession takes place in front of the Basilica. It also goes around the main square. People sing and pray the rosary in many languages. Afterward, the procession of the sick proceeds to the underground basilica. The afternoon procession can be heart wrenching.
Popular Catholic shrine
There are beautiful and unique structures at this Catholic pilgrimage destination. You will also experience the presence of holiness at one of the popular Catholic shrines. You can feel at peace with yourself. The spirit of god will engulf you during your stay at this Catholic pilgrimage destination. I would recommend a visit to Lourdes sacred grotto during a vacation to Europe. It is a spiritual experience more that words could ever describe.
Tropical Destination Vacations provide packages to popular Catholic shrines. Without question, the Lourdes sacred grotto is the popular Catholic pilgrimage destination of Lourdes France.