On 5th December, World Volunteer Day, we pay tribute to the millions of volunteers around the world. In Lourdes, a place of pilgrimage and togetherness, this day takes on a special significance. Every year, thousands of volunteers from all walks of life offer their time and energy, often behind the scenes, to provide support and comfort to pilgrims.
As part of International Volunteer Day, the International Volunteering Centre of the Sanctuary invites all volunteers to take part, either by attending in person or by connecting via the Sanctuary’s website: https://www.lourdes-france.org/tv-lourdes,to join the Volunteers’ Mass at the Sanctuary.
This Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, 5th December at 10:00 am, at the Grotto (French time).
It will be followed by a group photo at the Grotto, and then a friendly gathering with refreshments at Maison Marthe & Marie.
Lourdes: a heart beating in solidarity
Every year, Lourdes welcomes pilgrims in search of hope and healing. For many, this spiritual journey is made possible by the commitment of volunteers, who provide essential services such as assistance with mobility, escorting to places of worship, logistical support and medical assistance. These men and women, young and old, work tirelessly to provide a safe and enriching experience for visitors, especially those who are ill or disabled.
Lourdes benefits from the work of a number of volunteer organisations, such as the Hospitality of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Hospitalities of accompaniment, the volunteer doctors and medical staff at the First Aid Post and the volunteers who come to serve the Sanctuary through the Sanctuary Volunteer Centre.
These volunteers form a genuine network of support that is essential to the smooth running of the pilgrimages, and they are also involved in organising the logistical side of things, whether it’s managing the crowds, guiding people in Bernadette’s footsteps, discovering the Sanctuary, listening to pilgrims…
In Lourdes, volunteering takes many forms, and every action counts when it comes to creating an atmosphere of kindness and encouragement.
Why volunteer in Lourdes?
Volunteering in Lourdes offers a unique human and spiritual experience. Many volunteers testify to the personal transformation they feel after their visit to Lourdes. Some mention the deep friendships they have made with pilgrims or other volunteers, while others say they have found new meaning in their lives.
Young people in particular are encouraged to get involved in voluntary work. Not only is the experience enriching on a human level, but it is also an opportunity to discover the values of sharing, selflessness and service. Many young people discover the satisfaction of contributing to the well-being of others and embracing new cultural and spiritual perspectives.
How can I become a volunteer in Lourdes?
There are several options for becoming a volunteer at Lourdes. Anyone interested can contact associations such as the Hospitality of Our Lady of Lourdes or the pilgrimage office of their respective dioceses to become a member of the hospitality team.
