By Dan Walsh at St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy
The relics of St Bernadette have journeyed on pilgrimage to Ireland for the very first time, visiting every diocese in the country. They have arrived at St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy, this afternoon where large numbers have already gathered for the special 24-hour stay including an all-night vigil.
The relics arrived to a welcome liturgy, silent prayer and the veneration of the relics at 3pm. Confessions take place 4-5pm and 6-7pm with Rosary and Procession with the statue of Our Lady involving the youth section of the Diocesan Pilgrimage at 5pm.
Mass and the Blessing with Lourdes water hosted by the Irish Pilgrimage Trust takes place at 7.30pm and at 9pm the Night Vigil and Liturgy of Light begins before the Blessed Sacrament.
Areas of the Pastoral Area will be invited to attend at certain times. Parishes from around the Diocese will be invited at different hours and details can be found on the Parish Newsletter or the saintaidanscathedral Facebook page.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 24th at 10am is the Votive Mass of St. Bernadette with Blessing followed by veneration and silent prayer. At 12pm Mass of Our Lady of Lourdes and anointing of the sick, presentation of petitions, blessing with Lourdes water, blessing with relics and departure of relics.
This very special once in a lifetime event will provide an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the special gifts and charisms of Lourdes in their diocese.
“Many of us have had the privilege of travelling on pilgrimage to the Shrine at Lourdes and it holds a very special place in our hearts. Others have never had this opportunity and many who once went there in pilgrimage are no longer able to do so. The theme of this visit is “Giving people a taste of Lourdes at home” and will be a faith-filled time for us to connect with that sacred place while remaining here in our own spiritual home, our diocese,” Bishop Nash told WexfordLocal.com.
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