Wednesday 27 May 2026 International Mass Today the International Mass was celebrated at the Underground Basilica of St Pius X. Several thousand Catholics, on pilgrimage from across the world, gathered to remember the universality of the church and to pray together. Clergy from the Archdiocese of Birmingham concelebrated at the Mass, and we had pilgrims delivering a Bidding Prayer, taking part in the Offertory and processing with diocesan flags. Watch! Today's International Mass Photo Gallery Diocesan Photograph Taken at each pilgrimage by the professional photographers at Lourdes. The below are photos taken by the diocesan communications team and include some group shots (Bishop Ullathorne Catholic School, Healthcare Team and Senior Team). Youth Vigil Tonight a Youth Vigil was held at St Bernadette (Carmel side). Bishop Timothy Menezes opened the gathering and thanked all the young pilgrims for the work they are doing whilst in Lourdes. He referenced this year's pilgrimage theme, 'Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee' and discussed how Mary had embraced the path chosen for her, even though it was not her choice - "let's try and do the same," said Bishop Timothy. He urged those in attendance to "live in the moment this week" and "allow it to be a life-changing experience for you". He said when pilgrims return home there will be things they just can't explain to others, and so people are encouraged to visit Lourdes to experience Lourdes themselves. We also heard a personal testimony of faith from Séan Jones, currently part of the Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT) Mission Team. Plus Adoration, prayers, music and the opportunity to speak privately to members of the clergy. The youth teams do so much at our pilgrimage - supporting our assisted pilgrims, putting together presentations, delivering the readings and more - giving a lot of themselves. The Youth Vigil is a time for them to gather together and was followed by an Open Mic session. School groups attending Lourdes, together with the Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT) team, are essential to the continued success of the Pilgrimage. Photo Gallery Manage Cookie Preferences