Torchlight Procession in Lourdes - A moment of Prayer and Light

The Torchlight Procession in Lourdes

The Torchlight Procession at Lourdes is one of the best-known and most moving ways of taking part in the tradition of the procession requested by the Virgin Mary. With pilgrims from all over the world, praying the rosary and singing the Lourdes Ave Maria, we follow and carry the light of Christ to rekindle our faith and strengthen our hope. As we enter the night, the earth, filled with light, seems to brush gently against the sky, welcoming its mystery and clarity. It's a moment of communion and sharing, where each torch represents a prayer, an intention, a hope.

Taking part in the Torchlight Procession

The Torchlight Procession, also known as the Marian Procession, takes place every day from 25 March to 1 November at 9pm. It is one of the most beautiful sights in Lourdes. Whether you are a pilgrim for a day or a regular visitor, you are invited to take part in this spiritual practice and feel the presence of God. It's an opportunity to share your faith with other pilgrims from all over the world and to feel the warmth and light of the community. It's a moment of prayer and recollection, where every lighted torch is a light of hope in the night.

The Procession of the Torches

The Procession of the Torches begins with the praying of the rosary and the singing of the Ave Maria de Lourdes. Pilgrims follow and carry the light of Christ, symbolised by the torches, as they make their way through the sacred places of Lourdes. This is a time of prayer and meditation, when pilgrims can draw closer to God and feel His presence. At the end of the procession, pilgrims can lay down their torches, letting their light shine in the night and symbolising their faith and hope. It's a moment of communion and sharing, where each torch represents a prayer, an intention, a hope.

FAQ

What is the Lourdes Torchlight Procession?
The Lourdes Torchlight Procession is a traditional procession that brings together pilgrims from all over the world to pray the rosary and sing the Lourdes Ave Maria. Pilgrims follow and carry the light of Christ, symbolised by the torches, as they make their way through the sacred sites of Lourdes.

When and how can people take part in the Torchlight Procession in Lourdes?
The Torchlight Procession takes place every day from 25 March to 1 November at 9pm. All pilgrims are invited to take part, whether on their own, as a family or in a group. Simply join the procession at the start and follow the route with the other pilgrims.

What do the torches symbolise in the Torchlight Procession at Lourdes?
The torches in the Torchlight Procession symbolise the light of Christ. By carrying these torches, pilgrims show their faith and hope in Christ. At the end of the procession, pilgrims can lay down their torches, letting their light shine into the night.