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Tranquillity, spirituality, friendship

Old hands and first-timers at the Order’s 55th international annual Lourdes pilgrimage

Lourdes 8 May 2013

In unexpected brilliant sunshine, in an atmosphere of tranquillity, of spirituality and friendship, more than 6,000 members, volunteers and the sick from all over the world gathered in Lourdes 3-7 May for the Order of Malta’s 55^th annual international pilgrimage. The British Association can proudly lay claim to an even longer pilgrimage presence.

Returning pilgrims greeted each other affectionately – a tradition that many can count in generations. This year, first-timer Emily Hunter accompanied and cared for her grandmother, now in her nineties and a pilgrim of many years’ standing.

Del Hunter and grand-daughter EmilyThe pilgrimage is a year in the planning, to ensure that the hardworking members and volunteers – the medical personnel, stretcher bearers, special needs pilgrims, their attendants – all enjoy this intense experience.