180 Maltese Patients & Pilgrims Go On 4 Day Pilgrimage To Lourdes

A group of 180 people from Malta travelled to Lourdes last week for the annual four day pilgrimage organised by the Maltese Association for the Transport of the Sick to Lourdes (UMTAL), bringing together patients, volunteers and pilgrims for a journey centred on faith, care and solidarity.

This year's pilgrimage included members from the Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem, the Monastery of St Scholastica, Dar tal-Providenza, CareMalta homes, Dar Bjorn, Dar tal-Kleru and the San Vinċenz de Paule Residence.

The pilgrimage was led by UMTAL's spiritual director, Fr Joe Mizzi, together with four other priests who provided spiritual guidance and support throughout the visit.

A dedicated medical team ensured that the 50 patients received continuous care during the pilgrimage. The team consisted of five doctors, eight nurses, three pharmacists and a radiographer, who accompanied the group and attended to patients' medical needs.

The pilgrimage was also supported by 72 volunteers. Of these, 25 were taking part for the first time, nine were attending for the second year, while the remaining 38 have been assisting on the pilgrimage for many years.

Six members of the Voca Choir also joined the group to lead the music during the Mass celebrated in Maltese.

Throughout their stay in Lourdes, the pilgrims participated in several religious celebrations, including the International Mass, a Maltese Mass, the Way of the Cross, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Aux Flambeaux evening procession, confession and the anointing of the sick.

UMTAL has organised the pilgrimage since 1931, giving people with health conditions the opportunity to visit the renowned pilgrimage site.

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