16/05/2026
Just returned home from Lourdes last night in the early hours. Words cannot describe the feelings on our return . It was a totally inspirational and humbling 6 days. There was laughter, tears happiness and above all hope. Once again our sincere thanks to all who helped us on our journey .
A special thank you to the Dungannon branch of the Armagh dioceses pilgrimage to Lourdes. You were a great support and help to us especially branch secretary Julie Quinn who went above and beyond all that was required to get the choir on its way . It was an experience we won’t forget. It was great to meet other Lourdes branches in the diocese. From Dundalk, Cooley, south Armagh, keady, Armagh, Portadown, and South Derry. Wonderful people full of help assistance and care. Nurses, doctors, health workers and helpers from all walks of life there with the soul aim of taking care of our sick, our elderly and our community. No words of ours will ever do justice to your unselfishness and kindness.
Also a special mention must go to members of our Dungannon branch who received certificates in recognition of their continuos dedication over the years to helping others in Lourdes.
Take a bow,
Eilleen Keegan 10 years
Eugene Corr. 5 years
Ciaran Donnelly 10years
Ita Reneghan. 40 years
To you all, our heartfelt congratulations.
Thanks to all our bishops,priests and deacons who showed leadership, holiness, humbleness and piety in giving comfort and peace to the many pilgrims facing massive challenges in their lives.
To Archbishop Eamon Martin, Bishop Michael Router and Fr Mark O Hagan, and all the participating clergy and deacons, thank you . Your praise of our choir was heartfelt and very much appreciated.
To all the helpers , nurses, doctors etc what can we say. You, along with our priests and bishops are the reason so many of our assisted pilgrims have the truly wonderful, holy and uplifting experience they receive . We hope when that final bell tolls that you will be well rewarded for your love, kindness and comfort to all those who are less fortunate in their lives.
The Lourdes experience for those who have yet to visit is truly phenomenal . Words cannot describe the feeling of goodness holiness and hope radiating from this small town in the deep South of France.
Hopefully our choir added to it.
To all choir members thank you. It was 18 years since our last visit and if it takes as long again many of us might not make it to that beautiful grotto of St Bernadette.
Whether we do or don’t, it will never take away from the truly wonderful 6 days we had in this small market town .
No matter what religion or creed you may follow, whatever age group you fall into or indeed whatever hand the good lord has dealt you , no one cannot be anything but truly inspired by the sanctity,goodness and sheer kindness by all who work or pray at this holy shrine.
The memories of Lourdes will remain with us for a very long time.
St Bernadette pray for us all🙏🙏🙏.
