Lộ Đức: Sứ Mạng Thầm Lặng Của Lòng Thương Xót

Lourdes is preparing to host approximately 150,000 people for a visit by the Pope on September 26 and 27. The pilgrimage site is organizing to welcome visitors, including individuals, families, young people, and travelers who may not belong to traditional pilgrimage groups or regular Christian communities.

Father Jean-Xavier Salefran, a priest of the Saint Martin Community, said the local community views this visit as a major event for the Sanctuary, the Church in France, and the universal Church. He noted that the mission involves welcoming and serving those with physical and spiritual wounds.

Father Salefran identified a pastoral challenge in welcoming diverse visitors without turning the site into a tourist destination or a vague spirituality. He stated that Saint Bernadette remains a central figure whose life of poverty, illness, and lack of education allows her to connect with young people and those facing hardships.