They come from different countries. They speak different languages. They practice different customs. Yet, they all travel to Lourdes for the same reason—their love for the Blessed Virgin, and their faith in her Son, Jesus Christ.

Veronique was born in Cameroon. When she was a young woman, missionaries traveled to her village and preached the Gospel. She felt God’s loving presence, and was soon baptized. She knew she wanted to share her love of the Lord with many. In 1997, she traveled with a Cameroon delegation to Paris for World Youth Day. She was part of a choir who sang for Pope John Paul II. Fluent in French, Veronique remained in Paris. She began a personal ministry, using her beautiful voice to sing God’s praises. She travels to Lourdes often to pray to Our Lady in thanksgiving for her blessings.

Tom was born in Glasgow, Scotland. He worked in England for many years, and his business often took him to the United States. Still, his favorite place to travel was Lourdes. “I just loved coming,” he said, “there is such peace here.” Tom began volunteering at the Shrine, working with the sick in the hospital. “I started making pilgrimages two or three times a year, just so I could help. It was such an amazing experience.” When Tom retired, he sold his house in England and moved to Lourdes. Today he continues to volunteer in the hospital, caring for the sick pilgrims who travel for healing.

Nadia is from London. She brought her mother and mother-in-law to Lourdes to celebrate their 70th birthdays. As the two older women participated in the bathing in Lourdes water, Nadia took her two young daughters, Daniella and Emma, to the Grotto. Each girl held a candle she would later place inside the Grotto cave, so they could be used to light the candelabra.

Hala traveled from Ottawa, Canada, with her parents. She had been to Lourdes three years before, and knew it was her parents’ dream to see the Sacred Grotto. For Christmas she gave them this trip. Both of Hala’s parents are Lebanese. They left their homeland because of the constant warring. They built a family in Canada, but still traveled back to Lebanon. Despite the uncertainty of their country, their faith has never been shaken. “There is so much fighting. Everyone thinks they are right. What should we believe in? Christianity? Judaism? Islam? Hinduism? Buddhism? What it comes down to is faith. As long as you believe, and as long as you practice kindness and acceptance towards everyone, you are right. You need faith.”

Almost 150 years ago, St. Bernadette remained steadfast in her faith. Even when the majority of her town, including her parish priest, doubted her, she continued to pray to Our Lady. St. Bernadette’s presence is alive at the Grotto. Thousands of people travel to Lourdes as a sign of faith, believing that Our Lady is a guide to hope by leading them to her Son.