RC Diocese of Dunkeld

Dunkeld Lourdes Service organises the support that allows infirm people to make their pilgrimage to Lourdes each year.

Our helpers are mainly in their late teens and volunteer to give up part of their summer holidays in July to travel to Lourdes. They also pay towards the costs of transport, accommodation and food – this year they are paying £950. 

This experience gives these young people opportunities that they might not encounter at home.  It is hard work; starting with wake-up calls at 0630 for morning shift and ending evening shift at 2100; they will set up tables; serve meals; clean bedrooms and toilets; make cups of tea and coffee and push wheelchairs. More importantly they will spend time with pilgrims of all ages; keeping them company; getting to know them and entertaining them. During the pilgrimage they will learn to work and interact with strangers as well as developing their team working and communications skills.

We are a Catholic organisation but our helpers come from different faiths and all enjoy the experience.  Despite our volunteers paying towards their trip there is still always a large shortfall and it is to minimise this that we are fundraising.