"In 1858, in a cave situated below the town of Lourdes in the south of France, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared, in person, on eighteen occasions to Bernadette Soubirous, a very poor 14-year-old girl from Lourdes. The first apparition took place on 11th February and the last took place on 16th July. In 2008, Lourdes will celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Apparitions."
From www.lourdes2008.com  
 
Download the Mission booklet (pdf)

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Transcript of Brother Michael's thoughts on 2008 (speaking in January 2006)
"Whether it's the hundredth anniversary like it was in 1958 or the hundred and fiftieth which it's going to be, it's still the same Lourdes experience and although one has the added emphasis perhaps that this particular chronological milestone has been reached and doubtless there would be all sorts of additional signs and symbols to indicate that, the essential experience of going on pilgrimage is something which doesn't (hopefully) change, it goes on.
So I think they should celebrate it as they have always celebrated it - but with improvements!"

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Friday 14 - Sunday 16 November 2008 HCPT will be hosting a conference in Lourdes on the theme of the mission of the church to people with disabilities. The working title of this conference is "I have called you by your name". The conference will be on the weekend 14 - 16 November 2008. A number of speakers have been agreed including :

• Jean Vanier - founder of the L’Arche communities and Foi et Lumiere.
• Rev. Timothy Radcliffe OP - former Master General of the Dominican Order.
• Professor John Swinton - expert in Practical Theology and Pastoral care.
• Fr. Nicholas King SJ - biblical scholar and member of the HNDL
• Mr. Steve McDonald - former New York Police Officer, severely injured on duty.
• Mme Martine Guenard - Accueil for disabled people/families in Lourdes (OCH)

Visit the "Called by Name" page  

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April - October 2008 The Hosanna House 2008 season will run from 11 April to 31 October 2008.
 

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March 2008 The Easter 2008 Pilgrimage runs from Easter Sunday 23rd March. This year the Trust Mass will be led by our friends in America - The ASCPG. More details will be added to the Easter 2008 page in the coming months.
 

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February, Easter, December
Following the success of the two 50 mile walks in 2006, we have planned three walks in 2008! These will take place in February, March and December. More details of how to join in and how you can support our walkers on the Walk 2008 page
 

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6 - 9 December 2007
As Lourdes starts the celebrations of the 150th anniversary year, a meeting will be held for all hospitalitè and pilgrimage directors. HCPT will be at this meeting and will have a promotional stand showing pilgrims from all over the world the work of HCPT.

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