Sr Eithna Synnott has been a regular pilgrim to Lourdes over the years since she returned from mission in Africa. She attended in her role as Medical Doctor, supporting Pilgrims on their journey from Ireland to France and during their stay in Lourdes.
Last week she joined the Armagh Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes.
Since she is now retired from medicine, her role has evolved to that of “listener”, as she offers companionship and holds space for those who are dealing with the pain and heartache of difficult circumstances. She says that this is sometimes overwhelming, but it is “a most precious, gorgeous role” and she feels privileged and humbled to be trusted with the stories of her fellow pilgrims. It is a role, she says, that is as precious to her as medicine was, and still is. “I say very little most times, I just give precious space for words to enter!”
“There are so many memories in Lourdes of the goodness of our caring, loving humanity. Several of our Armagh mite box holders were there, and it was great meeting them in that holy place. John, a pharmacist used to help get medical supplies for our Missions many years ago,” she reminisces.
“Being back in Lourdes fills the soul with wonder.” She relays how one of the pilgrims approached her on the way back to the hotel one night to ask if she was okay because she had been walking so slowly. “It’s the wonder of this place”, she replied, “I’m being mindful of every moment, I don’t want this feeling to go.”
She describes the feeling as a physical awareness, requiring no thought, only presence.
She goes on to describe Mass in Lourdes as a reverse Tower of Babel because you never know what the language of celebration will be. “Isn’t that the great wonder of our universal church,” she exclaims. “Language is no barrier here, we all understand one another.”
The Armagh Archdiocese pilgrimage this year was about remembering all those who we have lost over the course of the pandemic, our Volunteer Workers, Pilgrims, Assisted Pilgrims and Loved ones, and bringing with us the intentions of our Assisted Pilgrims.
The penitential service and the grotto Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin.
You can watch the Youtube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JOYj5GpazU
A Pilgrim’s Prayer by John M. Haffert
If some things do not happen as they are scheduled,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If I should get tired and inclined to become short-tempered,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If my meal in a foreign country may not be to my particular liking,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If any delays should occur and I should become anxious,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If some other pilgrim is making noise so that I cannot hear the guide,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim and not a tourist!
When I ask that person to be a bit more quiet If someone takes a better seat or more choice place,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If I find myself last in line waiting,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
If I should get a chance to help another person, who always seems to be annoying me,
Lord, may I remember that I am a pilgrim not a tourist!
But Lord, especially let me remember that what I find objectionable in another is really what you oftentimes find objectionable in me
and let me remember this and forgive the other, as you are continually forgiving me!