What can one say about Lourdes? It is a strange combination of quiet reverence and Hampton beach kitch. The commercialism all but screams at you when you drive into town.
We got there at 9:10 which meant that we could not get breakfast at any of the hotels as they have a strict 7:30 to 9:00 breakfast schedule. Weird. Our hotel was right down the road from Father Ray's and we left word at the desk for him to call us when he got back. We set off to the sanctuary of Lourdes. It is very strange when you cross the gates and leave the craziness behind. The grounds are beautiful and very peaceful. We visited the Grotto where St. Bernadette saw Mary. You wait in line for a turn to walk in the cave and see the spring that Mary instructed Bernadette to dig for. We were so impressed with the quiet of the crowd as everyone waited their turn. Ian and Emma were so respectful during the long wait. There was also a school trip behind us and all of the children were silent. We walked through the Grotto and experienced such a sense of peace. We washed at the water as Mary asked all pilgrims . It truly reaffirms your faith.
The rest of the day was spent exploring several museums and the basilicas. 1 day is just not enough time to visit all the places we wanted to. We met up with Father Ray and Father Paul for dinner. It was so nice to see faces from home and hear familiar accents. We had a wonderful nice long visit with them. It felt like being at home with family. Emma and especially Ian were thrilled to chat Father Ray and Father Paul's ear off. We learned that Father Ray, like Ian is a very picky eater and that Father Paul does not approve of swearing. (Ian had told him that Pepere swears all the time) Emma's addition to the evening entertainment was to ask if anyone knew what the holiest animal was. (A chip....monk...!!!!) Very cute.
We went to the candle light processional a little late because we were chatting with Father Ray. It was very hard to see because we were way in the back. Much to our surprise, we were directed up front to the steps in front of the Rosary Basilica where we could see everyone praying the Rosary. What an incredible honor. I am not sure why we were chosen, but we were humbled and grateful.
Our final activity of the night was Mass at 11:00 pm in the Grotto. (In Italian.) We were flying out the next day and wouldn't have a chance to go to Mass. Needless to say, everyone was exhausted. Poor Emma fell asleep on my feet on the cold cement ground. Mass was beautiful.
Check out the slideshow of pictures at:
