Article by Phoenix writer Brooke Oldenborg ’26:
This past summer, two groups of missionaries were chosen to go to Lourdes, France to help the pilgrims who traveled there in hopes of not only physical but spiritual miracles.
The trips left on June 26 and July 10, and for two weeks each group charitably assisted fellow pilgrims. When the students arrived they started their work by assisting the sick and elderly pilgrims, known as malades, at the train station ensuring their safe and comforting entry into Lourdes.
Missionary Amanda Punturieri ‘25 was deeply affected by the faith of the malades, saying, “Witnessing the incredible devotion to Mary of the people we assisted was life changing.”
As well, the missionaries served in a hospital where the sick pilgrims were able to stay during their visit and helped lead people in Rosary processions every night.
Ms. Walsh, a teacher and fellow pilgrim, stated, “I will never forget how grateful the pilgrims were when we helped them with their wheelchairs. Even though I did not speak the same language as many of the pilgrims, I could tell they were very grateful to have so many people willing to help them.”
Aside from assisting the pilgrims, the students also visited many important religious sites in France including the home of Saint Bernadette and the burial site of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade.
The two week trip was an amazing and memorable experience for the students and teachers, allowing them to step away from the bustle of their everyday lives and put others before themselves.
