The Lourdes Connection: The Shrine's Importance for Popes Since Pius IX

Popes have maintained a strong connection to the Lourdes shrine since the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1858, according to Vatican correspondent François Vayne. The apparitions, which lasted five months starting February 11, occurred after Pope Pius IX proclaimed the dogma of the Immaculate Conception in 1854. Vayne reports that Pope Pius IX viewed the Virgin Mary identifying herself as the Immaculate Conception to Bernadette as divine confirmation of his teaching.

The date of the first apparition, February 11, has become significant for various Vatican actions and announcements. Pope Paul VI named St. Benedict the patron saint of Europe on this day in 1964, and Pope John Paul II established the World Day of the Sick on February 11, 1992. Additionally, Pope Benedict XIV announced his resignation on this date in 2013.

The Holy See also uses February 11 to sign important diplomatic documents, including the Lateran Pacts. On the same day, Pope John Paul II facilitated the return of Catholic bishops to Moscow following the fall of the Wall.