On the Way: A Pilgrim's Journal from Lourdes

Part Seven: Called to Greatness

“Be holy, for I am holy.” ~ 1 Peter 1:16

Paris • Communion of Saints • Miraculous Medal• Journey Home

"Every pilgrimage eventually comes to an end. The question is whether the pilgrim returns home changed."

As our pilgrimage drew to a close, we traveled to Paris before returning home to Spokane. While our time in Lourdes had ended, the journey of faith continued.

In Paris, we had the opportunity to pray before Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration and celebrate Holy Mass in several magnificent churches. We also visited the resting places of many saints whose witness continues to inspire Christians throughout the world. Among them was St. Catherine Labouré, whose incorrupt body remains a remarkable testimony to a life completely surrendered to God.

One of the great blessings of our time in Paris was meeting Sr. Julie, a Daughter of Charity. Bishop Daly introduced us to her as she welcomed us into the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal on Rue du Bac. Standing in the very place where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Catherine Labouré made the story of the Miraculous Medal come alive in a profound way.

Throughout these final days, one theme continued to echo in my heart:

The communion of saints is not distant; it is remarkably close.

Walking where the saints walked, praying where they prayed, and hearing how God transformed ordinary men and women into extraordinary witnesses reminded me that holiness is not reserved for a select few. Each saint simply responded to God's invitation with a faithful "yes."

Their lives continue to shape the Church because they allowed Christ to shape them first.

As I reflect on this pilgrimage, I realize that Lourdes and Paris were never simply destinations on a map. They became places where the Lord deepened my understanding of what it means to follow Him.

This journey has strengthened my love for the Eucharist, deepened my appreciation for the Blessed Mother, and reminded me that God continues to work through His saints; and through ordinary people who are willing to say yes to Him.

Perhaps that is the greatest gift of pilgrimage.

Not that we visit holy places, but that we return home with a renewed desire to become holy ourselves.

As I return to the Diocese of Spokane, I do so with profound gratitude; for Bishop Daly's invitation to make this pilgrimage, for the witness of the saints, and for the countless graces God has poured out along the way.

May each of us remember that holiness is not beyond our reach.

It is the vocation of every Christian.

May we, too, have the courage to say "yes" to whatever God is asking of us.

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

St. Bernadette, pray for us.

St. Catherine Labouré, pray for us.

Reflections By Seminarian Mitchell Carey

St. Francis de Sales Seminary