Relics of St Bernadette Tour 2022

In September and October this year, the relics of St Bernadette will journey on pilgrimage to England, Scotland, and Wales for the very first time. This very special once in a lifetime event will provide an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the special gifts and charisms of Lourdes, in a church or cathedral near them.

St Bernadette’s Story

St Bernadette was born in 1844 in a small town in France. Bernadette Soubirous was one of eight children born into a very poor family. Although initially unremarkable, Bernadette’s life was to inspire generations of people to journey in faith on pilgrimage to Lourdes.

Between 11 February and 16 July 1858, Bernadette saw the Virgin Mary eighteen times in a series of Apparitions that took place in cave on the outskirts of Lourdes, a place now known as the Grotto of Massabielle. In the course of these miraculous encounters, Bernadette, then aged just 14, became the friend and confidante of Our Lady, the mother of Jesus.

The Apparitions of Lourdes were authenticated in 1866 by the Bishop of Tarbes. In that same year, Bernadette left Lourdes to live out her religious vocation within the community of the Sisters of Charity of Nevers. She died in 1879, was proclaimed blessed in 1925, and a became a saint in 1933.

The Apparitions

The apparitions seen by St Bernadette took place over five months largely in silence. Despite this, over the course of time, an intimate relationship of trust, obedience, and love developed between Our Lady and Bernadette.

Today, the Catholic Church recognises 70 miracles as a result of the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, with people across the world journeying in prayer with Our Lady and St Bernadette, on pilgrimage to the Sanctuary.

Inspirational Women- Michelle Obama

As part of our Building the Kingdom topic, Inspirational Women, UKS2 decided to focus on the life and works of Michelle Obama for her dedication to those from low income families and inspiring girls to pursue further aspirations through education. She was the first Black First Lady of the United States of America. She advocates that all should have access to education and encourages young people to fulfil their full potential and lead healthy lives.

After university, Michelle joined Harvard Law School. In 1988, Michelle was awarded a degree to practise law (called a Juris Doctor). When she was studying, Michelle helped local residents who needed legal advice and couldn’t afford it.

In 2010, Michelle brought together parents and community leaders to encourage people to foster healthier eating habits.  In 2011, she began an initiative to support the wellness, education and employment opportunities of military veterans and their families. In 2014, Michelle began a programme to inspire young people across the US to complete their education and, in 2015, she expanded this by launching a programme encouraging girls around the world to stay in school.