February 11, 2022

Maurice Denis (1870-1943) Bernadette of Lourdes (1938)
Private Collection

Our Lady of Lourdes

Today’s optional memorial commemorates the first of eighteen appearances of Mary to a poor girl, Bernadette Soubirous, at the grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, France in 1858. Mary asked Bernadette to do penance, to pray for sinners and to drink of the spring that erupted in the grotto. Mary also asked Bernadette to tell the priests to build a chapel there and to hold processions. In effect, we see here the important role that priests have in fostering popular piety through devotions such as recitation of the rosary, Eucharistic adoration and Benediction, processions, etc.—perhaps something we should contemplate dedicating ourselves to once the pandemic is over (let us hope this is soon!)

On the two occasions I visited Lourdes (1988 and 2017), I found it to be holy ground and uplifting, particularly on the second occasion when I was with the Order of Malta’s pilgrimage where they served “our masters, the sick”.

On this day, which is also the World Day of the Sick, may I ask you to keep in mind several circumstances that have importance for the well-being of the diocese, especially the discernment of our future Bishop.

Personal

Ottawa is the centre of the nation and the world’s attention on account of the truckers’ “Freedom Convoy”. It has been stressful for all with whom I am presently living and interacting. May the Lord change peoples’ hearts so good order may soon be restored.

My agenda

February 11-18: Working in Ottawa at a distance from the Diocese, hoping to keep safe from Covid.

Sunday, February 13: Noon Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, Ottawa.

Saturday, February 19: Travel from Ottawa to Timmins via Toronto-Pearson.

February 22-28: Travel to Moosonee to dispose of the contents of the Bishop’s Residence and Office so as to prepare the building for sale.

Sunday, February 27: Mass at Christ the King Church, Moosonee, 11:00 AM.

Wednesday, March 2: Ash Wednesday Mass with imposition of ashes, Notre Dame de l’Assomption cathedral.

We renew our commitment to pray for one another as we serve God’s people here in Hearst-Moosonee.

✠Terrence