Those pilgrims not already in transit gathered in the St. Bernadette Church for the Sending-Forth Mass, presided at by Crispian Hollis, his last liturgy in Lourdes before retiring as Bishop of Portsmouth.

Bishop Crispian leading pilgrims in prayer at the end of the pilgrimage.

Assisted Pilgrims at the Sending-Forth Mass, seated in the distinctive
"voitures" used to transport some sick and disabled people in Lourdes.

During his homily Bishop Crispian encouraged pilgrims
to allow God's will to be done in their lives, whatever that may entail.

Carmelite group member and nurse Andy Joyce at Lourdes Airport.

Carmelite friars from York undertook the care of a seriously ill pilgrim
on the flight back to Manchester.
Already planning has begun for the 2012 Carmelite pilgrimage to Lourdes with the Catholic Association, which will take place between 24th and 31st August. Details will become available in January 2012, and we hope that as many people as possible will join us on our pilgrimage to this remarkable place.