Great message of Our Lady of Lourdes

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 2:1-11*

*First Reading : Is 66:10-14c*

*Responsorial Psalm : Jdth 13:18bcde, 19*

*Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes*

*Great message of Our Lady of Lourdes*

When the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 at the Grotto of Massabielle, she conveyed the following important message

*1) Prayer, Especially the Rosary*

Mary appeared to Bernadette holding a rosary and encouraged her to pray it often. 

This reminds us of the power of intercessory prayer, particularly through Mary, who leads us closer to Christ. 

The Rosary is a way to meditate on the mysteries of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, drawing us into deeper union with Him.

*2) Penance and Conversion*

Mary called for penance, asking Bernadette to pray and offer sacrifices for the conversion of sinners. 

This echoes Christ’s call in the Gospels: *Repent, and believe in the Gospel* (Mark 1:15). 

Lourdes reminds us that our actions, sufferings, and sacrifices can be offered to God as a means of interceding for others.

*3) Trust in God’s Mercy*

The spring of water that appeared at Lourdes is a symbol of God’s healing grace. 

Millions of pilgrims seek both physical and spiritual healing there, trusting in God's mercy. 

Even when healing is not physical, Lourdes teaches us that God offers inner peace and strength to endure suffering.

*4) The Dignity of the Humble*

St. Bernadette was a poor, uneducated girl, yet God chose her to receive this heavenly message. 

This mirrors the Gospel truth that God reveals Himself to the lowly and humble (Luke 10:21).

Lourdes reminds us that holiness is not about status or intelligence but about openness to God’s grace.

*5) Mary’s Role as the Immaculate Conception*

When Bernadette asked the Lady’s name, Mary responded, *I am the Immaculate Conception.*

This affirmed the dogma declared by Pope Pius IX in 1854, which teaches that Mary was conceived without original sin. 

She is the pure vessel chosen to bear Christ, and she calls us to purity of heart.

*6) Lourdes a Holy Place*

Lourdes is a place of hope, healing, and conversion, reminding us that God’s mercy is always available to those who seek Him with a sincere heart. 

*Overall Message of Lourdes*

Pray daily, especially the Rosary.

Offer sacrifices and repent for sinners.

Trust in God's healing and mercy.

Be humble and open to God's will.

Follow Mary as a model of holiness.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*