Article by Jenna McQuaid ’25:
This past summer, I went on a ten-day mission trip to Lourdes, France, a small southwestern town that attracts approximately 5,000 people daily. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, the Virgin Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 and asked her to return to this site 18 times. Presently, the Grotto of Lourdes attracts people globally, many seeking healing and comfort.
From the moment I arrived, I felt a profound sense of peace, as if I had glimpsed heaven. I was ultimately struck by the immense love people had for one another. Whether I was working the Eucharistic or Candlelight processions, helping the sick at the train station, or walking through the streets, I noticed how people always smiled and greeted each other warmly.
The people I met in Lourdes, many missing limbs, elderly, or children with physical and psychological disabilities, showed me a level of unconditional joy I had never encountered.
Despite their challenges, they smiled with a genuine happiness that was contagious. I was deeply moved by their resilience and spirit.
One afternoon, while searching for the adoration chapel with two friends, we got lost and asked a woman praying the rosary for help. Her name was Loyola, and she guided us to the chapel. She shared that her daughter no longer believed in God, but seeing us had restored her hope.
While I am aware that I was on a mission trip to help those who needed assistance in Lourdes, France, I realized that my service had not only helped others but also helped me. The spiritual practices I take at Kellenberg like daily midday prayer, attending weekly Mass, and volunteering at the Queen of Peace Residence were enriched by the people I met at Lourdes. Lourdes taught me that no matter what makes someone different, they will never be abandoned.
