The Order’s traditional international pilgrimage to Lourdes ends today. This year there was a record participation of over 4,500 Knights, Dames and volunteers arriving from 50 countries to accompany and assist some 1,500 sick people.

During his speech in the church of St. Bernadette, the Grand Master asserted that: ‘the pilgrimage to Lourdes gives us a great opportunity to look after the sick personally – carrying stretchers, cleaning wards, preparing meals, treating the sick, praying with them and listening to them, whatever their origin, race or affliction. I want to address in particular all those young people who have chosen to serve Our Lords the Sick, at the feet of Our Lady of Lourdes, together with the Order of Malta. It is your kindness, attention and joyfulness, combined with your steadfastness and faith, that restores dignity to the men and women who suffer, who are dependent on others or who are at the end of their strength.’

Next year will mark a milestone in the history of Lourdes: the 150th anniversary of the apparition of the Madonna to Saint Bernadette in the Massabielle grotto. The Order of Malta is preparing to celebrate this special occasion with an even greater participation.