Page 30 - The Old Ratcliffian 2015 Magazine
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30 RATCLIFFIAN ASSOCIATION EVENTS
THE ROSMINI COLLEGIATE GROUP
LOURDES PILGRIMAGE
FRIDAY 24TH - FRIDAY 31ST JULY 2015
Lourdes 2015
We travelled to Lourdes as a group of forty-four pilgrims in July Underground Basilica, and we were able to participate fully in a
2015, and we were well represented by students, staff, governors, beautiful liturgy celebrated by Cardinal Vincent Nichols.
Old Ratcliffians, and other members of the Rosminian family. A
total of five ORs joined the Pilgrimage: Danielle Fairbrother (02), Teresa Gamble
Richard Gamble (64), Donal Heffernan (75), Fr Anthony Meredith Group Leader
IC (57) and Fr Philip Sainter IC (69).
LOURDES: A REFLECTION
During our week in Lourdes, we tried to follow the instructions
which Our Lady gave to Bernadette in 1858: Process, Do Penance
and Bathe.
PROCESS
Donal Heffernan (75), Fr Anthony Meredith (57) & Richard Gamble (64) One of the highlights of the week, as always, was the Torchlight
Procession. The group joined pilgrims from all over the world
We are an HCPT (Hosanna House and Children’s Pilgrimage in processing around the area in front of the churches, which
Trust) Summer Pilgrimage Group. We stay at Hosanna House were built on the side of the rock where Our Lady appeared
in Bartres, near Lourdes, and, as a group, we are able to look to Bernadette in 1858. This place is now known as the Grotto.
after both children and adults who are disabled or have special During the procession, we spoke and sang the words of the
needs. It was a really joyful week, and everybody in the group Rosary, which was said in many different languages.
contributed to the family atmosphere.
DO PENANCE
One of the highlights of the week was the Torchlight Procession
on the evening of Sunday 26th July. For the first time, our group Just as Bernadette was aware of her failings, we are aware
was selected to lead the procession. Nick Walsh and the students that we need the healing power of God in our lives. As a group,
led with our Group 512 banner, and we were clearly visible with we walked the Stations of the Cross and reflected on Jesus’
our ‘hi-vis’ jackets! sacrifice, which was for the sake of our sins.
Another first for our group was the International Mass on the BATHE
morning of Wednesday 29th July. We had prime position in the
Many of our group took the opportunity to visit the Baths, so
that they could be placed in the water, which is from the springs
of Lourdes. This is a reminder of God’s cleansing power and that
our relationship with God can always be renewed.
Register online at www.ratcliffianassociation.co.uk
