Diocese welcomes saint’s relics as part of historic tour

Tuesday 20th September 2022

We are delighted that the relics of Saint Bernadette have safely arrived at our cathedral this morning.

This very special, once-in-a-lifetime event will provide an opportunity for people across the diocese to experience the special gifts and charisms of Lourdes from our very own cathedral.

Hundreds of people are set to visit the cathedral over the next two days to take part in this unforgettable faith experience.

Continue reading to find out more about how you can join us in prayer during the visit.

Visit

Over the next two days, there will be a number of opportunities to visit the relics and spend time in private prayer and reflection. If you have not booked in advance, please don’t worry. We’d love for you to come along and share in this experience. Times for open visits are as follows:

Tuesday

4 – 5pm (almost full)

6.30 – 7.45pm

9.30pm – midnight – Time for private prayer and praying The Rosary.

Wednesday

9 – 11.30am

3 – 5pm

Attend a Mass or Service

We are also delighted to be hosting a range of Masses and services during the visit of the relic. We invite you to join us at any of the following times:

Tuesday

5.30pm – Mass of Vocation

8pm – Youth Vigil

9pm – Torchlight Procession

Wednesday

8am – Morning Mass

12.10pm – Mass of Anointing

5.30pm – Mass of Thanksgiving and Farewell Service

Livestream

If you are unable to visit our cathedral in person, there will be a number of opportunities for you to pray along at home by tuning into our livestream. All of the above Masses and services will be livestreamed at https://www.churchservices.tv/salfordcathedral

Pray at home using our special resources

For anyone wishing to mark the occasion by spending time in private prayer, we have pulled together a resource pack to support you. The booklet includes prayers, a message from Bishop John, and information about the relics and the story of Saint Bernadette. Please click the link below to take a look at our digital booklet.

Digital booklet

Schools

Special provision has also been made for the youngest people in our community, with designated school visits and resources.

Schools and teachers can access these resources by logging into our resource centre and visiting https://www.dioceseofsalford.org.uk/resource-centre/education/collective-worship/relics/. Please contact education@dioceseofsalford.org.uk for further information.

We hope that many of you choose to take up this special opportunity to unite in prayer together.

If you would like to find out more about the Lourdes Pilgrimage, please visit https://www.salfordlourdes.co.uk/