The recent consultation process surrounding the structure of the Carmelite Lourdes Pilgrimage revealed two important realities: the pilgrimage is deeply loved, and there is a strong desire for clearer leadership, stronger communication, and greater accountability. In response, a renewed governance structure has been established to help ensure the pilgrimage remains spiritually vibrant while being supported by clear leadership and strong organisation.
This restructuring is not a criticism of the past, but a commitment to responsible stewardship for the future. Meeting under mandate from the Provincial, the newly formed Executive Committee provides governance, oversight, and strategic direction for the pilgrimage. Members of the Executive Committee are Paul Eaton, Fr James Eivers, Áine Feeley, Ciaran Gilmartin, Fr Éanna Ó hÓbáin, and Craig Orr.
Working alongside them is the Pilgrimage Leadership Team, responsible for the operational delivery of the pilgrimage itself. The team includes Fr Simon Nolan, O.Carm (Pilgrimage Leader), Fr Sean Ford, O.Carm (Pastoral Director / Chaplain to the Sick), Fr James Eivers, O.Carm (Master of Ceremonies), Honor O’Brien (Music Director), Carole O’Connor (Organist),Áine Feeley (Youth Director), Br Jander da Silva Santos (Youth Chaplain), Paul Eaton (President of Hospitality), Ultan O’Callaghan (Coordinator, Pilgrim Support Team), Fr Éanna Ó hÓbáin (Pilgrimage Administrator), Yasmin Doyle (Administrative Secretary), Dr Kate Reilly (Chief Medical Officer), Mary Parkinson (Director of Nursing), Gerard Buckley (Coordinator of Logistics), Debbie Allen (Director of Safeguarding), Ciaran Gilmartin (Finance Officer), Craig Orr (Coordinator of Communications), and Jane O’Donovan (Local Groups Liaison).
Together, these two groups form a clear and collaborative structure designed to strengthen communication, accountability, and pastoral care, ensuring that the Carmelite Lourdes Pilgrimage continues to serve pilgrims faithfully for many years to come.
