Over 200 pilgrims from the diocese and beyond gathered in Lourdes to join Bishop Logan on the annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes. This year, a number of pilgrims from the Diocese of Argyll and the Isles joined the Youth Group under the leadership of Fr. Roddy McAuley (parish priest of Saint Kieran’s, Campbeltown) as they travelled overland to Lourdes to help with the care of those in the hospital. A group of pilgrims from Saint Francis’, Dundee also joined with those who flew out from Edinburgh Airport on Monday 24th July.

Bishop Logan concelebrated the opening Mass of the pilgrimage with Fr. Brian McLean, Pilgrimage Director, Fr. Aldo Angelosanto, Fr. Neil Gallagher, Fr. Eugene O’Sullivan, Fr. Michael Milton and Fr. Roddy McAuley. At the beginning of the Mass, which took place in the Saint Joseph’s Chapel, Bishop Logan welcomed all those who took part in this year’s pilgrimage.

Mass was also celebrated at the Autel Esplanade (Saint Bernadette’s altar), in the hemicycle and at Bartrès. The group also attended the International Mass on Wednesday morning in the underground Basilica of Saint Pius X. Fr. Roddy led the Penitential Service which took place on the Wednesday afternoon in the Upper Basilica. The final Mass of the pilgrimage took place at the Grotto on Sunday morning. Pilgrims from Wales also joined the Dunkeld group for this celebration. After the Mass, Bishop Logan led the pilgrims to the statue of Saint Margaret Queen of Scotland, where Fr. Brian McLean conducted a short prayer service.

Speaking of the pilgrimage Bishop Logan said, “being in Lourdes is always a moving experience because of the faith of the pilgrims is always tangible and the spirit of prayer is so enriching for everyone. To be associated every day with the sick and the disabled pilgrims is a great grace.”