Bishop Philip writes…
We had a great pilgrimage to Lourdes last week, thanks be to God. Although it was very hot, we managed to take part in all the main pilgrim activities: the Torchlight Procession, the Stations of the Cross, a visit to the Baths, the International Mass and Blessed Sacrament Procession in the underground basilica, a tour of the town, a visit to Bartrès as well as plenty of quiet time at the Grotto. We had daily Mass and Morning and Evening Prayer together and our group quickly bonded, sharing some good times together. The hotel we stayed in, La Solitude, was excellent. Clearly the food and the facilities – and the air conditioning! – had been upgraded yet again since our last visit. I must thank Canon PJ Smith and his team for the superb organisation.
Meanwhile, welcome to e-News Issue 540 (2026/24) for Tuesday 14th July 2026. Today – it seems appropriate after a week on Lourdes – is the liturgical Memorial of St. Camillus, patron saint of the sick, hospitals, nurses, healthcare workers and doctors. Let us ask his prayers for all involved in the medical profession. Next week, we will be in Turin and in Assisi with the diocesan pilgrimage to honour our two new saints: Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis: please pray for us all and for a safe journey. So may the Lord bless you with His love and give you His peace during these summer days.
With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,
In Corde Iesu
+Philip
Bishop of Portsmouth
