This morning we have been concerned with lighting candles in the grotto or going into the holy baths with the pilgrims. Benedict said "It's always an amazing experience bathing in the waters from the spring. There's always a special feeling when you come out. I feel a lot happier". Personally I got extremely emotional coming out, so in a role reversal my pilgrim looked after me for a while! Though we support our pilgrims with transportation, reassurance and care, our pilgrims support us in many ways too.
After lunch we took the pilgrims to mass in the Chapel of Saint Bernadette before some time with the pilgrims.
Now I'd like relay the story of Bernadette and Vin. Bernie I had the pleasure of taking into the baths, and she told me the story of how her and Vin met. Bernie was a handmaiden and Vin was a Brancardie, and they first met underneath the arches in the St Frai during the 1966 pilgrimage to Lourdes. They got married in 1968, so have just celebrated their 45th Anniversary. Vin is a deacon, and has served at masses this week, and has been to Lourdes 50 times, and Bernadette has been just over 20. They were both lovely, and I feel honoured that they shared their story.
We're just having some group time, sorting out for stations of the cross tonight before tea, and recording the latest Balcony Interview!
Also we have *just* hit 1000 views on this blog! Thank you for your continued support!
Day off tomorrow...(we cannot wait!)
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