Photos and story by Fr. Richard Hall, OMI

On February 11, 2022, the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto and Tepeyac Shrine in San Antonio, Texas, celebrated the feast of its patroness. The grotto activities office organized a candlelight procession similar to those held at the Shrine in Lourdes, France. It is estimated that more than 300 faithful attended the event which included the rosary during the procession and the celebration of the Eucharist. It is believed that a procession like this has never been held at the Grotto since its founding in 1941.

February 11 is also the World Day of Prayer for the Sick, since the many miracles at Lourdes were about healing. Grotto director, Fr. Richard Hall, O.M.I., offered the opportunity for those attending to receive the sacrament of anointing. He was joined by several Oblates of Mary Immaculate ministering in the San Antonio area.