Praying as a pilgrim
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When you enter the Sanctuary, everything is conducive to contemplation and prayer: statues, crosses and places of worship welcome pilgrims as soon as they enter.
An open-air church
Prayer rooted in faith and trust
In Lourdes, prayer is first and foremost a response of faith. Pilgrims come to pray in the hope of encountering God through the intercession of the Virgin Mary. Many entrust their sufferings, their doubts, their sick loved ones or their relatives to God in prayers that are often simple but deeply sincere.
Marian prayer
Prayer in Lourdes is mainly about Mary, focusing on the Virgin Mary, who appeared to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. So, the rosary is one of the most common ways to pray, either individually or in a group, often in front of the Grotto of Massabielle.
> Pray live in front of the Grotto
Universal prayer
Lourdes is a universal place of prayer. Pilgrims come from all over the world and pray in every conceivable language. This gives Lourdes a very strong Catholic (universal) dimension: each person prays in a way that reflects their own culture, but everyone comes together in spiritual communion around Mary.
Healing prayer
Lourdes is also a sanctuary of suffering and hope. Many pilgrims come here sick, disabled or as carers. Prayer then becomes a cry from the heart, a plea for help, peace or healing — be it physical, mental or spiritual.
Silent and communal prayer
Prayer can be collective (processions, masses, vigils, adoration, etc.) or silent and personal, which is often very profound at the Grotto. Many pilgrims describe a unique atmosphere of inner peace that fosters intimacy with God.
Prayer accompanied by gestures
Pilgrims also pray with their bodies: by touching the rock of the Grotto, lighting a candle, participating in processions (especially the Marian torchlight procession), and visiting the Baths. These are all expressions of prayer that express one’s faith.
