Application deadline January 31 for all-expenses-paid military pilgrimage to Lourdes, France
Group shot of 2014 Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage. Photo courtesy of Lacaze.
WASHINGTON, D.C.—January 31 is the final day for wounded or disabled U.S. Military personnel to apply for the Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage, an all-expenses-paid spiritual journey to Lourdes, France, May 12-18, 2015. All post-9/11 era military personnel and designated caregivers who are accepted on the pilgrimage are guaranteed financial sponsorship. Companions and volunteers are also welcome to apply.
The Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage is sponsored by the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS) and the Knights of Columbus(K of C). It is the latest in a long history of involvement on the part of both organizations in Lourdes and in service to the military. It is scheduled to coincide with the 57th Annual International Military Pilgrimage, which will bring servicemen and women, veterans, and other pilgrims from around the world to Lourdes.
The five-day pilgrimage organized by the AMS and K of C will consist of a number of spiritual events, including visitor tours, special Masses and events for American pilgrims, Eucharistic adoration, blessings of the sick, candlelight vigils, and a grand closing ceremony that draws tens of thousands to the sacred shrine.
“We will journey and pray with pilgrims from around the world,” said the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services. “The occasion to raise our hearts and minds to the Prince of Peace is more imperative than ever, given the tension and strife that dominate the present world situation.”
Approved wounded or disabled military personnel and designated caregivers will attend the pilgrimage free of charge through K of C financial sponsorship. The package rate for U.S.-based volunteers and companions is: $2,600 (double occupancy), $2,900 (single occupancy). The package rate for European-based volunteers and companions is: $580 (double occupancy), $780 (single occupancy).
The U.S. package includes round-trip transatlantic transportation from either Washington D.C. or Houston, Texas, as well as lodging, meals, and PMI credentials. The European package includes round-trip transportation from Kaiserlautern, Germany, as well as lodging, meals, and PMI credentials.
To apply as a pilgrim or volunteer for the 2015 pilgrimage, visit www.warriorstolourdes.com. All applicants will be notified of decisions regarding their application by February 15, 2015.
