The sky is white, grey and blue.

The thunder rumbles above us.

The trees are dark green.

People in a myriad of colours walk by -

families, youngsters, couples,

old men and women with walking sticks, others with pushchairs, hiking poles…and umbrellas to avoid the rain.

We are waiting in a very long queue for the Baths - Les Piscines - at Lourdes.

Hours, minutes, seconds… seemingly it does not move.

The rain falls heavy and heavier.

I am protected by a kind neighbour from the water as it falls - she has a brolly, should there be sun or rain!

I await the healing and cleansing pool found within the building (next to the Grotto).

I am being soaked, drenched as the wind forces it across. My clothes are wet.

Inside I will bathe in the powerful spring from the Holy Waters which flow from the very water Source given to Bernadette by Our lady.


The Ave Maria is sung by those present.

Prayers are said by the priest who speaks in French to listening ears.

All anticipate their arrival soon at the front of the queue, as it slowly shifts forward.


We wait and wait...2 hours has passed.

We pray and pray. We watch and meditate.

We exchange smiles and we continue the wait.


An announcement by The Man: ‘It is finished for the day!’

We all start to move again - but away from the Baths, glancing at the folk who are still sitting inside the covered porch, but assured still of their treasure!

Disappointment reigns - but then a beautiful realisation!


Here, in Lourdes, anything can happen,

for God is the Miracle Worker through Jesus the Healer and Mother Mary, the Intercessor!

Why be discouraged?! Oh blessed and holy place where in God pours His Grace,

where in our hearts can mend,

where in His peace is sent…

I am alive here, feeling His Holy presence!

And the Mother of God, drawing us to Jesus, His Son!


I wander to the the fountains of holy water

and pour over my head, the water for a thirsty soul. My God is everywhere!