THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 45, NO. 2 | JULY 28, 2023
IN THE SERVICE OF OUR LADY
CNS PHOTO/OSV NEWS, NANCY WIECHEC
Each year, millions visit the Grotto of the Apparitions in Lourdes, France, where, in 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous. In the grotto, visitors can drink or bathe in water flowing from a spring famous for its healing.
Priest finds month in Lourdes ministry deeply moving
By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
“T
here are a lot of healings that take place in Lourdes,” said Father Michael Stubbs. “And some of them are phys-
ical.” But many more take the form of a different — but just as important — cure entirely. “Most of the healings are spiritual,” he said. Father Stubbs recently returned from serving four weeks as a confessor at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in southwestern France. Each year, millions visit the Grotto of the Apparitions where, in 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous. In the grotto, visitors can drink or bathe in water flowing from a spring famous for its healing. They also have opportunities to attend Mass and receive the sacrament of reconciliation from priests, like Father Stubbs, who give their time to minister to the pilgrims.
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COURTESY PHOTO
Father Michael Stubbs, retired pastor and former Leaven Scripture columnist, served as a confessor for pilgrims in Lourdes, France, earlier this summer. He also had the opportunity to concelebrate Mass at the basilica of St. Sernin in Toulouse, France (above). “It was a moving experience for me, they were very serious and very sinvery rewarding,” said Father Stubbs. “A cere.” Father Stubbs believes one of the few times, the confessions were routine. But for the most part, they were not. >> See “LOURDES” on page 4 “Often, people had tears in their eyes;
T
he Leaven is going to World Youth Day! Follow along with us on our journey to Lisbon, Portugal, beginning on July 28. To see exclusive photo and video coverage of the experience, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @theleavenkc.