Our Lady of Lourdes
Feast Day: February 11
“I am the Immaculate Conception.” – Our Lady of Lourdes to St. Bernadette
The feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, celebrated on February 11, honors the miraculous appearances of the Blessed Virgin Mary to St. Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes, France, in 1858. It is a celebration of Mary’s love for the sick, the suffering, and all her children, as well as a call to prayer, penance, and trust in God’s healing mercy.
A Mother Appears to a Humble Girl
In 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous, a poor, humble girl from the small town of Lourdes in the Pyrenees. Mary appeared to her a total of 18 times at the Grotto of Massabielle, beginning on February 11.
Mary was radiant, dressed in white with a blue sash, holding a rosary in her hands. She invited Bernadette to pray the Rosary, to do penance for sinners, and to encourage the building of a chapel at the site.
“I Am the Immaculate Conception”
On March 25, during one of the final apparitions, the Virgin Mary revealed her identity, declaring, “I am the Immaculate Conception.” This profound statement affirmed the dogma proclaimed just four years earlier in 1854, that Mary, by a singular grace from God, was conceived without original sin.
A Fountain of Healing Grace
During one apparition, Mary instructed Bernadette to dig in the ground, where a spring of water began to flow. This spring, though small, has flowed continuously ever since. The waters of Lourdes have been associated with countless miraculous physical and spiritual healings, always attributed to God’s grace through Mary’s intercession.
The Lourdes Shrine quickly became one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions seeking healing, hope, and peace.
A Message of Prayer, Penance, and Mercy
Our Lady of Lourdes calls the faithful to a life of prayer, particularly the Rosary, conversion of heart, and care for the sick and suffering. Her message is one of humility, trust in God, and love for all her children.
Patroness of the Sick and the Suffering
Our Lady of Lourdes is especially invoked as the patroness of the sick, the disabled, and all who suffer. Her feast day is also observed as the World Day of the Sick, established by Pope St. John Paul II to offer prayers and solidarity for the suffering around the world.
A Witness to God’s Healing Love
The apparition of Our Lady of Lourdes reminds the faithful that Mary always leads us to Jesus, the Divine Healer. Her tender care for the poor and the sick continues to inspire millions to place their trust in God’s mercy.
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us!