Water, Fire, Cave and Mass in the Grotto in Lourdes

This sacred Grotto rests beneath the massive structure that contains 3 churches, one on top of another, built at the request of Mary to Bernadette. Cardinal Dolan of New York, the principal celebrant, preached in his homily that present in this Grotto are the three fundamental physical elements humanity has required in survival. Water, the source of life, fire, warmth and protection, and a cave, shelter from the elements. In our pilgrimage we cling to these symbols connecting us to healin gin water, the candles representing the prayers on our lips and hearts and Mary's presence in the Grotto, shelter for our faith to grow.