We also took the pilgrims to the International Mass in the Underground Basilica. Meanwhile, we had our own C4 Mass with Catechisis lead by Sean, thinking about Superheroes. We decided that 'the Ordinary Man' with simply a big heart had the most desirable super powers. We all have talents and strengths, and it's simply a case of using them for good.
The theme of this year has been The Joy of Conversion. I thought at first this meant changing other people, but came to realise over the course of the week that it meant small changes within yourself. The group of people coming into Lourdes on that coach were not the same people that left. So many conversions happened throughout the week...new members gained confidence, we all grew in faith; Kate, James and Jono even got confirmed! Simple conversations with each other or pilgrims had the power to change. Hearing someone's story that made you feel more grateful for your own life, or prompt you to think differently. The amount on social media after coming home has been astounding. People are being open about their faith, maybe thinking more about god. Conversion is everywhere.
The bracelets may come off and the yellow polos put back on the shelf, but the experiences we had in Lourdes impacted our families, the pilgrims we helped, and ourselves. All the laughter, the smiles and the singing...there's the Joy. Thankyou to everyone who has shared in this experience with us. I hope the Joy of Conversion that we found in Lourdes is with us always...until next year.
