Matt Betts, Trustee of the Catholic Association writes:
In 2026, the UK charity, Catholic Association (founded in 1891) is celebrating 125 years of pilgrimages to Lourdes. We would love members of the Catholic Union to be fellow pilgrims in our 125th birthday pilgrimage. Our Lady of Lourdes’ invitation is to all, whatever their health, whatever their wealth. The Catholic Association has for 125 years facilitated pilgrims to accept that invitation. Long may that continue.
The CA pilgrimage is medically enhancing (in 2025 we had over forty health care professionals – doctors, nurses, dentists, occupational therapists – as well as over one hundred volunteer helpers), the all-round care providing opportunities to help the pilgrims improve their lives in ways which are rarely possible. The CA provides a spiritual, liturgical, pastoral and logistical infrastructure which enables groups and smaller dioceses to achieve far more for their pilgrims than they could do alone. All are welcome.
Please join from 21 to 28 August 2026, either by coming yourself (and family?), and/or by helping another who might benefit from a week in Lourdes, and by praying for us and for all those who take the long journey in pilgrimage to Lourdes throughout the year.
Additionally, we are trying to raise £125,000 by the end of this year so we can make sure many more people can come to Lourdes and experience this place of hope. If you can help, please donate here: https://www.catholicassociation.co.uk/calourdes125
For further information on joining us on pilgrimage, please visit our website: www.catholicassociation.co.uk