Proposed Pilgrimage Itinerary *



The International Military Pilgrimage is a major gathering for the Catholic military chaplaincy, as much spiritual as festive and fraternal. It will take place in Lourdes from 21 to 25 May 2026!


Day 1 - Thursday, May 21, 2026: Departure to Lourdes and Opening Mass
Depart from Dublin Airport for your flight to Lourdes. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your accommodation. After check-in, attend the Opening Mass at 5:00 pm in the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, formally inaugurating the pilgrimage. Return to your hotel for dinner and an introductory group meeting. Conclude the day with the evening rosary and torchlight procession at the sanctuary.

Day 2 - Friday, May 22, 2026: High and Low Stations of the Cross and International Military Ceremony
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel. At 11:45 am, attend the International Military Ceremony in the Basilica of St. Pius X, a powerful event uniting military personnel from around the world in prayer and song for peace and solidarity. In the afternoon, join the High and Low Stations of the Cross at 2:00 pm, a meditative journey through the Passion of Christ in the serene outdoor spaces of Lourdes. Return to your hotel for dinner, followed by the evening rosary and torchlight procession.

Day 3 - Saturday, May 23, 2026: Grotto Mass, Military Pilgrimage Mass, and Parade
Start the day with the sacred Grotto Mass at 7:30 am, an intimate and moving experience in the heart of the sanctuary. After breakfast, join the Military Pilgrimage Mass in the Basilica of St. Pius X, a special gathering of clergy, military personnel, and pilgrims. After lunch, witness or take part in the military parade, a symbolic display of fellowship and unity among nations. Spend the evening in quiet reflection or fellowship with others. After dinner, join the evening rosary and torchlight procession.

Day 4 - Sunday, May 24, 2026: International Mass and Farewell Ceremony
Celebrate the International Mass in the Basilica of St. Pius X in the morning, a profound spiritual gathering of clergy, military personnel, and pilgrims. In the afternoon, at 2:30 pm, attend the Farewell Ceremony in the Basilica of St. Pius X, where the pilgrimage concludes with final prayers, reflections, and blessings. Spend any remaining time in the sanctuary or revisit sites such as the Grotto for private prayer. After dinner, participate in the final rosary and torchlight procession.

Day 5 - Monday, May 25, 2026: Free Day for Reflection and Exploration
Enjoy a day for personal prayer, quiet reflection, or exploring Lourdes at your leisure. You may wish to revisit sacred sites, such as the Grotto, or take time to reflect on your pilgrimage experience. Return to the hotel for dinner and a closing group meeting.

Day 6 - Tuesday, May 26, 2026: Departure for Dublin
After breakfast, transfer to Lourdes Airport for your flight back to Dublin. Depart Lourdes with cherished memories of unity, faith, and the blessings of this extraordinary pilgrimage.