Pope Francis sent a message to the pilgrimage and to the Church in France for the closing of the celebrations, in France, the National Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Lourdes commemorated its 150th anniversary.
In his letter, the Pope asks “to turn decisively to the Virgin in the face of the difficulties, worries and challenges of the present.” Furthermore, he places at the feet of the Mother of God all places where violence prevails:
“May the Queen of Peace intercede with her Son so that the much-desired peace can be established there where the rumor of arms is heard,” said the Holy Father. He also tells bishops that they must “constantly nurture and strengthen the love and tenderness that the faithful feel towards their beloved Patroness, in particular through the use or rediscovery of popular acts of devotion.”
He also asks Mary to awaken in the hearts of all “genuine sentiments of brotherly love, so that societies grow harmoniously in respect for their neighbour, safeguarding their dignity and rights, and so that no one is left behind”.
As for the sick and disabled, who have attended the Shrine since the first days of Marian devotion in the place, the Pope refers to the example they offer, along with the people who accompany them, stating that “they give the world an eloquent testimony of faith and charity”.
In the same way, the Pontiff prays for families, addressing specifically parents “who bear the daily burden of great responsibility”, and children, “so rich in potential, but often too concerned about their future, or unfortunately already hampered by many limitations”.
He concludes by urging the pilgrims to let their faith produce in them an “unshakable hope, on which they must build their lives and their societies”, and by imparting his blessing to all those gathered in Lourdes, to all the faithful of France and to their pastors.