In view of the current situation, at present, and into the period ahead, with regard to Covid19, and taking into consideration that the Sanctuary at Lourdes has been closed for the first time in its history, the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes for 2020, due to take place in July, is cancelled.
The Bishop of Clogher, Bishop Larry Duffy says that he appreciates that ‘this will be a sad decision for many, but in the circumstances, it is the only sensible one to take.’ He has expressed his thanks to the Director, Brian Armitage, to the Spiritual Director, Canon Noel McGahan and the members of the Clogher Lourdes Pilgrimage Executive Committee and alsoto the members and leaders of the Clogher don Óige Youth Ministry, for their work on this year’s preparations.
Bishop Duffy asks people to pray for the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, so that the present pandemic may come to an end. He expresses the hope that, ‘with the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, we can look forward to resuming our journey to the Shrine of Mary in 2021.’
Prayer to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children, we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today, especially for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic.
We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your gentle care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help all of us, Holy Mother, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever.
Amen.
