The Way of Compassion at Lourdes - A Journey of Consolation and Hope

The Way of Compassion in Lourdes

The Way of Compassion in Lourdes is an original initiative that offers practical help and support through listening and prayer to families faced with the loss of a child, whether unborn, deceased or "missing". More broadly, this path is also open to all those who, marked by the trials of life, need to be consoled. Families are guided and accompanied in their search for inner consolation. This spiritual journey is a time for reflection, prayer and healing, where families can find comfort and hope in their bereavement.

Taking part in the Way of Compassion

The Way of Compassion at Lourdes is available every day from 2pm to 3.30pm. Families are accompanied by the Gospels of Jesus' childhood. This route begins at the feet of the Crowned Virgin, and passes through the joyful mysteries of the Basilica of the Rosary, followed by a time of meditation in front of the Grotto of Massabielle. Families then head to the rotunda of the Good Samaritan to write the name of their unborn or missing child. This journey is an opportunity to draw closer to God, to share one's sorrow and to find comfort in faith.

The Chemin de Compassion process

At the end of their journey, parents are invited to write their child's name in a "Book of Life", as prayer intentions that will be carried by local nuns and pilgrims. Families will be able to place a candle in the chapels of light, joining all those placed by pilgrims to Lourdes, so that their prayer will remain, even after their departure. Those who wish to do so can finish this journey by joining in the praying of the rosary, which starts at 3.30pm at the Grotto of Lourdes. This process is a way of paying tribute to their child, sharing their grief and finding comfort in prayer and faith.

FAQ

What is the Way of Compassion in Lourdes?
The Chemin de Compassion in Lourdes is a spiritual journey offering practical help and support through listening and prayer to families faced with the loss of a child, whether unborn, deceased or "disappeared". The Way is also open to all those who, marked by the trials of life, need to be consoled.

When and how can people take part in the Way of Compassion at Lourdes?
The Way of Compassion at Lourdes is available every day from 2pm to 3.30pm. Families are accompanied by the Gospels of the Infancy of Jesus and are guided through various places in the Sanctuary. At the end of the tour, parents can write their child's name in a "Book of Life".

What is the "Book of Life" in the Way of Compassion at Lourdes?
The "Book of Life" is a book in which parents can write the first name of their unborn, deceased or "disappeared" child at the end of the Way of Compassion. These names become prayer intentions that will be carried by local nuns and pilgrims.