The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes has fully reopened its immersion baths for the first time since 2020.
The baths, which had been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent renovations, are now available to the public, allowing pilgrims to once again seek healing through full immersion in the sacred waters. 5 of the 17 pools are initially available, following an improvement to the water filtration system to ensure health and safety.
During the pandemic, the sanctuary adapted by offering pilgrims alternative ways to interact with the water. Pilgrims were able to wash their faces, hands, and forearms, a practice that mirrored what Our Lady had instructed Bernadette Soubirous during the ninth apparition.
Father SĂ©bastien Anthony, president of the annual Lourdes pilgrimage, called the reopening a “return to normal,” reported CNA and Aleteia. He said there was a need to welcome pilgrims, especially the sick, with dignity, as the baths play a crucial role in the spiritual and physical healing many seek at Lourdes.
The baths’ reopening coincided with the Solemnity of the Assumption, drawing thousands of pilgrims to the site. Despite inclement weather, an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 people participated.
Photo credit: THOMAS KURIAN / Shutterstock.com
