What Our Pilgrims Can Look Forward To
There is growing excitement as we prepare for this year’s Carmelite Lourdes Pilgrimage, made even more special by the historic news that Pope Leo XIV will be visiting Lourdes during our time at the Shrine.
The Holy Father’s Apostolic Journey to France will take place from 25–28 September 2026, with a significant portion of his visit centred on the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. For those travelling with the Irish Province of Carmelites, this presents a unique opportunity to be present for an extraordinary moment in the life of the Church.
A Historic Visit
Pope Leo’s journey will be the first official papal visit to France since Pope Benedict XVI visited in 2008. During the four-day Apostolic Journey, the Holy Father will visit Paris, Saint-Denis, Lourdes and Metz, before returning to Rome.
For pilgrims in Lourdes, the most significant moments will take place on 26 and 27 September, when the Pope joins thousands of pilgrims gathered at one of the world’s most beloved Marian shrines.
Pope Leo’s Schedule in Lourdes
Following his visit to Paris, Pope Leo will arrive in Lourdes on Saturday, 26 September, where his first stop will be the Grotto of the Apparitions at Massabielle. There, he will spend time in prayer at the very place where Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette in 1858.
The following day, Sunday, 27 September, will be the Holy Father’s first full day in Lourdes. His programme includes:
- Meeting with the bishops of the French Episcopal Conference.
- Celebrating Mass at the Prairie of the Sanctuary.
- Visiting and greeting the sick pilgrims and staff at the Accueil Notre-Dame.
- A private visit with the contemplative Carmelite Sisters of Lourdes.
- Participating in the internationally renowned Torchlight Marian Procession during the evening.
Many of these events are expected to be open to pilgrims.
A Special Pilgrimage for Our Group
The pilgrimage leadership team is working closely with Joe Walsh Tours and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes to monitor any programme updates resulting from the papal visit. While some elements of our usual itinerary may be adjusted, every effort will be made to ensure our pilgrims can participate in this remarkable occasion.
We invite all pilgrims to keep Pope Leo XIV in their prayers as he prepares for his Apostolic Journey, and we look forward to sharing this grace-filled and historic pilgrimage together in Lourdes this September.
