Dear Derry Diocesan Pilgrims to Lourdes,
We hope this message finds you well and that the memories of our recent pilgrimage to Lourdes (29th June to 3rd July 2026) continue to bring you peace and encouragement. We are writing to extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your contributions, dedication, and presence throughout this spiritual journey.
As we reflect on our days together, we simply want to say thank you to everyone who made this year's pilgrimage such a prayerful, joyful and memorable experience.
To our pilgrims, thank you for making the journey in faith. Your prayer, kindness and openness to one another created a wonderful spirit throughout the week. Each of you contributed to the sense of community that makes the Derry Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes so special.
To our staff, thank you for the countless hours of preparation and the quiet work that often goes unnoticed. Your commitment, organisation and care ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing everyone to participate fully in the pilgrimage.
To Bishop Donal and our clergy, thank you for leading us in prayer and celebration throughout the week. Through the Masses, liturgies, reflections and pastoral care you helped deepen our experience of Lourdes and reminded us of God's constant presence among us.
To our young pilgrims, thank you for the enthusiasm, joy and generosity you brought each day. Your willingness to step away from the familiar and embrace this pilgrimage was an inspiration to us all. You reminded us that the Church is alive with hope and that faith continues to flourish in the hearts of young people.
To our youth leaders, thank you for your dedication and encouragement. Through your example and support, you helped our young people grow in confidence, friendship and faith, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt welcomed and included.
To our music ministry and choir, thank you for enriching our liturgies with your gifts. Your music lifted our prayer, united our voices in worship and added beauty and reverence to each celebration.
To our medical team, your quiet vigilance, compassionate care and tireless service ensured that we could travel with peace of mind. You were a living example of love in action, tending to needs seen and unseen, and we are deeply grateful for your dedication. May Almighty God bless your generous hands and hearts.
Together, each of you contributed uniquely to the success and impact of our pilgrimage to Lourdes. Your presence, commitment, and care turned this pilgrimage into not only a meaningful spiritual experience but also a lasting memory for all involved that will remain in our hearts.
Each prayer you offered, each kindness you shared, and each moment of reflection on your pilgrimage in Lourdes has left a lasting imprint—not only on the places you visited, but on the hearts of all who walked beside you with devotion, unity, and hope.
You have reminded us all, that the Derry Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes is more than travel; it is a unique sacred weaving together of souls, stories, and purpose. Of the 'Yes' that changed everything for Our Lady. Of the 'Yes' that changed everything for St Bernadette. Of our 'Yes' that will change everything for us.
May the blessings and grace you all sought return to you in abundance. May the peace of Christ you carried be a light to others. And may the memories of this year's 2026 pilgrim journey to Lourdes continue to inspire and bless your days ahead.
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.
St Bernadette, pray for us.
May Almighty God Go With Us All.
With sincere gratitude and blessings,
The Lourdes Pilgrimage Office Team 2026