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Pope Leo hears Lourdes testimonies of service and hope
Pope Leo XIV meets sick and disabled pilgrims at Lourdes to hear stories of resilience and faith
In brief
Pope Leo XIV meets sick and disabled pilgrims at Lourdes to hear stories of resilience and faith Serving the vulnerable strengthens community bonds through shared vulnerability and hope Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Pope meets Lourdes center
Pope Leo XIV visited Accueil Notre-Dame, a facility for sick and disabled pilgrims in Lourdes, France on Sunday, 27 September 2026.
“How can it be that their fragility is the cement of the stones of this building?”
750,000 pilgrims served
Since 1997, Accueil Notre-Dame has hosted 750,000 sick or disabled people during their Lourdes pilgrimages.
Doctor's medical philosophy
A Laval doctor shared Ambroise Paré's words: 'I dressed his wound; God healed him' to emphasize humility in care.
“I dressed his wound; God healed him”
Marguerite's journey
Marguerite Hourt, paraplegic since 2016, returned to Lourdes to find faith after a bicycle accident left her disabled.
“I often went to pray at the Grotto, to cry out my despair and my rage”
Serving as grace
Marguerite now works at Lourdes Sanctuary, helping pilgrims access hope despite ongoing challenges from her disability.
“I am proud to now be at the service of welcoming pilgrims”
What to remember
Serving the vulnerable strengthens community bonds through shared vulnerability and hope
