St Bernadette relics to visit Newry Cathedral during October

Parishioners will have a unique opportunity to encounter the powerful message of hope, compassion, and the enduring love of God. Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh stated, the relics bring "a source of hope, great joy, and inspiration" to all who venerate them, reminding us of St. Bernadette’s simple yet profound witness to the faith.

St. Bernadette Soubirous was born on January 7, 1844, in Lourdes, France. She is one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church. Her humble beginnings, marked by poverty and illness, became the foundation for an extraordinary life of faith that continues to inspire generations.

In 1858, at the age of 14, Bernadette experienced a series of visions that would change her life and the lives of millions worldwide. While gathering firewood, she saw a beautiful lady dressed in white, later identified as the Virgin Mary. Over the course of 18 apparitions, the Lady revealed a message of prayer, penance, and the importance of faith. The Virgin Mary asked Bernadette to drink from a spring that miraculously appeared in the grotto and to tell the local priests to build a chapel on the site.

The apparitions were initially met with scepticism and opposition, both from local authorities and the Church. Bernadette, who was known for her honesty and simplicity, maintained her story despite the doubts and challenges she faced.

The site of the apparitions, now known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, has since become one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the world.

After the apparitions, Bernadette entered the Convent of the Sisters of Charity in Nevers, France, where she lived a life of prayer and service. She suffered from severe illness, including tuberculosis, which ultimately led to her death at the young age of 35. Despite her suffering, Bernadette remained humble and devout. She famously remarked, "I was nothing and of this nothing, God made something."

The relics will be available for adoration after the liturgy of welcome. The relics will remain in the Cathedral on Thursday and all-day Friday until 10pm.

Canon Francis Brown, Administrator of Newry Cathedral Parish stated, "This is a unique opportunity for the people of Newry and there will be several opportunities for prayer during the two days. These will include a Mass with the anointing of the sick, the Rosary, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Candlelit procession.”