Description
The Water Gesture is one of the most emblematic acts of the pilgrimage to Lourdes. Inspired by the request made by the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous during the apparition of 25 February 1858, it invites pilgrims to come and drink from the spring and wash themselves there.
Accompanied by Sanctuary volunteers, everyone can experience this moment of reflection—alone, with family, friends, or as part of a group—in a spirit of faith and trust.
The gesture consists of reproducing the same actions performed by Bernadette when she discovered the spring: first washing her hands and face, then bringing the water to her mouth to drink.
Guided Water Gesture sessions take place every day at the Good Samaritan Chapel (Rotunda) from April to October:
from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Pilgrims may also perform the Water Gesture independently at any of the Sanctuary’s fountains throughout the day.
For further information about the Water Gesture, please contact the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes:
[email protected]
