Washing of the Feet, Reconciliation, a Lourdes Rosary

In the opening ceremony of this Lourdes Pilgrimage we gather to minister to one another. We are at the The Knights and the Dames wash the feet of the malades, doing as Jesus instructed us; "I have given you a model to follow, as I have done for you, you should also do...love one another, as I have loved you." In simple bowls, towels at the waist, large and small feet, expressions of amazement, of humility, of care. The malades starting to peel away the burdens on their shoulders and hearts to make more room for Mary and her Son, for healing however it may be made present to them. The malades to commence their ministry of the pilgrimage which is to allow us to minister to them. This takes place at the Saint Bernadette-Carmel Chapel. We start this pilgrimage fresh with a rosary in our hands or pocket, and forgiveness from the sacrament of reconciliation.