Pilgrims' joy on 1899 visit to Lourdes

A fascinating insight into a 19th century pilgrimage from Edinburgh to Lourdes reveals the devotion of Scotland's Catholics to Our Lady.

Around 100 lay people from across Scotland travelled together in September 1899, along with nearly 30 priests.

A report of the pilgrimage describes their "tears of joy" as they took part in the famous torchlight procession at the French holy site.

A photo of the pilgrims in Lourdes has been shared by Donald Shaw, a longtime Lourdes Pilgrim himself, and a former principal teacher at Holy Rood High School.


It was on the pilgrimage that his grandfather, Donald Stuart Shaw, manager of the Ben Nevis distillery in Fort William, met future wife Belle Barnard of Edinburgh (both highlighted, above).

The Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage was led by Archbishop Angus MacDonald of St Andrews & Edinburgh (pictured bottom left, seated between Bishop James Augustine Smith (Dunkeld Diocese, right) and Bishop Aeneas Chisholm (Aberdeen Diocese, left). Bishop Smith would later become Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh from 1900-28.

The Pilgrims first visited Paris, which included a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral.

They then headed to Lourdes with the report in The Tablet stating: "All credit is given for the cheerful manner in which they bore the great fatigue of the twenty hours' journey".

The report continues: "The first glimpse of the church of Lourdes, as its bright lights broke through the darkness of night, was hailed with an enthusiastic singing of ‘Hail Queen of Heaven.’

"During the five days' stay at Lourdes the pilgrims from Scotland occupied the place of honour in the various processions.

"On the Feast of the Nativity, the Archbishop carried the Blessed Sacrament in a procession which had a congregation of 50,000.

“The thrilling hymns, the long line of invalids on couches, the living faith and the stirring sermons, all combined to produce a scene of religious splendour never to be forgotten by those privileged to witness it.

"On the last day of the pilgrimage a Pontifical High Mass was sung by the Archbishop, the sanctuary being filled with a crowd of Scottish, Belgian, Irish, American, German and French priests.

"At the end of the Mass the magnificent banner of St Andrew with the Royal Arms of Scotland was laid on the steps before the high altar, and thus Scotland's tribute of devotion to the Mother of Jesus takes its place among the standards of the world which fulfils the words, 'Behold all nations shall call Me Blessed'.

"At the immense torch-light procession the Scots again led the procession with their three Bishops in front.

Cries were raised by the Belgians for God's blessings on the brave Scots.

"The scene baffled all description. The Aves of so many different nations, said by their tens of thousands as they moved round the beautifully illuminated buildings, rendered it impossible to restrain the tears of joy.

"Particularly impressive was the moment when Archbishop MacDonald was called upon to bless the immense multitude.

"A piper in full dress formed a striking figure."

"His voice rang through the air as the kneeling crowd responded, and then fervent faith prayers were said for the conversion of Scotland and the welfare of France.

"Cries were raised by the Belgians for God's blessings on the brave Scots, and this was most heartily responded to by ringing cheers for France and Belgium.

"Never will the Scottish pilgrims forget the hospitable reception accorded them.

"It was the pride of these faithful friends of Scotland to prove that they still remembered that both nations once recognised the same faith and were the children of the beautiful and beloved Sovereign, Mary Queen of Scots.

"Headed again by the piper as he played his lament, the pilgrims bade farewell to Lourdes, each repeating, 'If God spares me, I will visit Lourdes again.'"

The Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place 11-18 July 2025 and the flight is fully booked. If you wish to take part please contact Tangney Tours on 01732 886666 and ask to be put on the waiting list. All other info at https://www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes25

Young Adults Talk Series - St Mary's Cathedral

The Lenten talk series for St Mary's Cathedral's Young Adults Group.
We take a look at some of St Paul's writings and the teachings contained within them. This final talk is led by Archbishop Leo Cushley who will discuss Phillipians 2: 6-11.
Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm. Talk begins at 7:30pm and is followed by some time for private prayer and confessions then Night Prayer, finishing for 9:00pm.
No registration required. Further info: frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Young Adults Talk Series - St Mary's Cathedral

The Lenten talk series for St Mary's Cathedral's Young Adults Group.
We take a look at some of St Paul's writings and the teachings contained within them. Talk led by Fr Jamie McMorrin, of St Margaret's Parish in Edinburgh, who will discuss Ephesian 6: 10-20.
Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm. Talk begins at 7:30pm and is followed by some time for private prayer and confessions then Night Prayer, finishing for 9:00pm.
No registration required. Further inf0: frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Young Adults Talk Series - St Mary's Cathedral

The Lenten talk series for St Mary's Cathedral's Young Adults Group. We take a look at some of St Paul's writings and the teachings contained within them. Talk led by Fr Joshua Moir of St Patrick's in Kilsyth, who will discuss St Paul's epistle to Philemon. Doors open at 63 York Place at 7:00pm. Talk begins at 7:30pm and is followed by some time for private prayer and confessions then Night Prayer, finishing for 9:00pm. No registration required. Further info: frrobert.taylor@staned.org.uk

Edinburgh Seven Hills Pilgrimage

Join us this Lent for the Edinburgh Seven Hills Pilgrimage on Saturday 5 April.
Taking in the summits of Arthur's Seat, Blackford Hill, the Braids, Easter Craiglockhart Hill, Corstorphine Hill, Castle Rock and Calton Hill, the whole route is around 27km starting and finishing at St Mary’s Catholic Cathedral.
Whether you want to join us for the whole event or meet the group along the way, this is a perfect opportunity to offer Lenten penance, pray for the city of Edinburgh and conclude with worship together at the 6:00pm Vigil Mass and prayers at the Jubilee Cross at the Cathedral.
More details to be confirmed soon, but register your interest now at bit.ly/sevenhillsapril
Event organised by St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh.

Q&A: Helping the sick and infirm in Lourdes

World Day of the Sick is on Tuesday (11 February) and coincides with the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. We spoke to Scott Johnston, 52, a volunteer nurse on this year’s Archdiocesan Lourdes pilgrimage, to find out more about the brilliant care and support that the sick and infirm assisted pilgrims receive.

What is the main role of a volunteer nurse in Lourdes?
Pilgrimage nurses undertake a variety of roles across the year. All of our team are primarily focused on providing 24-hour nursing care whilst we are in Lourdes. We are also involved in meeting with assisted pilgrims and their families before travelling to discuss care needs and how this will be provided in the St Frai (the accommodation for assisted pilgrims). The Nursing Team deliver training sessions to support existing and new volunteers. I usually travel independently to Lourdes and help to set up our section of the St Frai before our pilgrimage group arrive. I then provide nursing care to pilgrims during the pilgrimage.

What is the best part of being a volunteer nurse?
I really enjoy being able to spend time with the assisted pilgrims and the other volunteers. As a pilgrimage nurse I also participate in all the masses and activities during the week. Lourdes allows me to use my clinical nursing skills in a way that I no longer do regularly in my day job in the NHS (National Maternity Improvement Advisor).

And the most challenging?
The week is very tiring, but it is also very enjoyable, so that makes up for it!

What kind of professional care do assisted pilgrims get?
The care we provide varies depending on the need of the pilgrim. This can include personal care, medication administration and assisting with eating and drinking. The nursing team are also responsible for dealing with any emergency situations that may occur (this is not very often).

From your experience, what parts of the pilgrimage do assisted pilgrims enjoy the most?
When I speak with pilgrims, they all speak of the spiritual side of Lourdes, the activities and the companionship as the parts they enjoy the most.

What support do volunteer nurses get in their role?
We have preparation meetings and training sessions. As a team we are very conscious of the variety of skills that we all have and we work very closely to support each other before and during the pilgrimage.

What feedback have you had from the families of assisted pilgrims about their experience in Lourdes?
 The feedback from families that I have had is very positive. Many families end up joining the pilgrimage in future years!

How do I find out more about this year’s pilgrimage?
Go to the www.edinburgh-lourdes.com which has all the info on this year’s pilgrimage.

Update: The Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2025 is now fully booked. www.edinburgh-lourdes.com/lourdes25

GALLERY: World Day of Consecrated Life

Religious brothers and sisters gathered for Mass at St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh on Sunday to mark World Day of Consecrated life.

In his homily, Archbishop Cushley said: "They have dedicated themselves to a life of perfect charity, of complete and single-minded focus on living a life dedicated to the Lord.

"Let's keep them in our prayers and let's pray for vocations to the religious life."

In the Archdiocese there are 12 Institutes of Consecrated Life (and Societies of Apostolic Life) for men and 15 for women.

View them on this website under at the Vocations tab ('Religious Life') here.

If you are interested in exploring the religious life, please email religiousvocations@staned.org.uk

Gallery

Religious Sisters holding candles at the beginning of Holy Mass.
Centre, Sr Karin Hugens FSO and Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, of The Spiritual Family The Work, Edinburgh, at Holy Mass.
The Missionaries of Charity (Edinburgh) with Fr Michael Downie of Sancta Maria Abbey, Nunraw (Haddington, left), and Fr Ray Warren OMI (St Mary's, Star of the Sea, Leith).
Religious Sisters of Mercy, Lauriston, with two members of the Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary.
The Carmelites (Bathgate).
The Ursulines of Jesus, who are based in Rumford, near Falkirk, with lay members, as well as Mairi Clunas OCV (second from right). Sr Kathleen Curran UJ (centre left) is the President of the CRS Conference of Religious of Scotland.
Discalced Carmelites, Dysart, Fife.
A sister from the Missionaries of Charity, says the bidding prayers at Mass.
Archbishop Cushley with Sr Aurora, a member of the Servidoras (Lochgelly, Fife).
Sr Miriam Fidelis Reed RSM (left) and Sr Miriam Ruth Ryan RSM with Fr Davide Radaelli from the Oratory Project at St Patrick's, Edinburgh, Mgr Jeremy Milne, Administrator of St Mary's Cathedral and Fr Binu Palakkapilly.

 

Bernadette honoured with papal medal

Congratulations to Bernadette Barry who has been honoured with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal.

The award is given to those who have shown distinguished service to the Church and is the highest medal that the Pope can give to a layperson.

Bernadette received the award for her selfless work for the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes for over 50 years.

It was presented by Archbishop Cushley at Mass celebrated in St Cuthbert's, Slateford, on Sunday afternoon, which was attended by family, friends and fellow pilgrims.

Canon James Tracey, Pilgrimage Director (and parish priest at St Joseph's in Burntisland), said: "Bernadette is very much a powerhouse behind the Pilgrimage.

"Her first pilgrimage was when she was 18 and Lourdes has played a huge part of her life since.

"There is no-one more generous with their time and effort; over the years she has given countless hours attending committee meetings and ensuring things go like clockwork, especially for the assisted pilgrims.

"Her support to me as Pilgrimage Director has been invaluable.

"As Chief Lady Helper she leads the team of ladies and organises the rotas with her usual efficiency. She ensures that we have all we need for the comfort of the assisted pilgrims.

There are many other things that she does in the background, which she does selflessly.

So today we acknowledge Bernadette' personal contribution and dedication for over 50 years.

Bernadette, a parishioner at St Cuthbert's, remains Chief Lady Helper at Lourdes and a member of the Hospitalite and Pilgrimage Committees. She is looking forward to this year's pilgrimage which takes place 11-18 July.

Canon James finished: "Bernadette receives the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal with gratitude and humility - she has rightly stated that we work as a team.

"But her individual contribution for so many years has been outstanding and we are delighted that it is being recognised in this way."

Barbara shares Catholic faith on Songs of Praise

Singer, songwriter and actress Barbara Dickson has appeared on Songs of Praise to reflect on the music that has shaped her faith.

The episode saw Barbara being interviewed by Pam Rhodes at St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh, where Barbara is a parishioner.

She reflected on the exciting, early days in the city when she began making a name for herself as a talented singer & songwriter as well as finding her faith around the same time.

Barbara sings an atmospheric version of one of her favourite hymns, Creator of the Stars on Night.

She said: “When I came to Edinburgh I started to feel drawn to a church (St Francis, Lothian Street) and that's where I really started to feel a sort of depth of feeling towards God.

"I think only when I went to Catholic churches did I actually begin to feel ‘the presence’, … I would come in here and and absorb the silence."

She added: "When I became a Catholic there was that feeling of a massive continuity that had come to me from Saint Paul really...2,000 years of unbroken worship.

"I love the liturgy as a means of worshipping God. I had always felt like a Catholic so when I actually was confirmed and I was received into the church it felt like coming home."

Barbara with presenter Pam Rhodes at the National Shrine of St Andrew inside St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh.

On the programme Barbara sings a beautiful version of Creator of the Stars on Night and visits the National Shrine of St Andrew which is located inside the Cathedral.

She also said a special prayer in praise of the gift of music: "Heavenly father thank you for the gift of music which brings us so much joy maybe continue to use it and praise and worship of you we also pray for the intercession of Saint Andrew to remain devoted wherever we are in our journey of faith we ask this in the name of Christ the Lord, Amen."

Songs of Praise: Barbara Dickson's Faith & Music is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer

Workshop for Children's Liturgy Leaders

If you are involved with Children's Liturgy in your parish, the Archdiocesan Catechetics Commission invites you to The Gillis Centre, 100 Strathearn Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1BB, for a workshop on Children's Liturgy of the Word.

The day takes place on Saturday 22 February from 9:30am-12:00pm and will include Mass, discussion groups, a presentation on resources, and a presentation on the Liturgy of the Word within Mass.

Registration and full event schedule at https://forms.office.com/e/yRxbbsJ5kL.