August 14, 2011: The Holy Water at Lourdes
Today I went to the spring of Lourdes. We woke up at 5:30 to get breakfast in before we left. When we finally got to the spring, I washed my face, drank the water, and blessed myself witht the Sign of the Cross. Then it was off to the baths.
What a spiritual honor! During our preparation for the baths, we said a rosary. I went on to read some Bible verses on forgiveness and faith because I truly wanted to be ready for the saving power of the baths at Lourdes. After about an hour of waiting, I reached the bath. I began to shake will I was in the waiting room. Im not entriely sure why…nerves? Anyways, I was guided into the spring water while a Hail Mary was said. I did the Sign of the Cross and the only person I could think to pray about at the time was my brother. It was so cold that I could not focus on any other prayers besides this one beause its the one Ive been praying the hardest for. I came out and was moved when Sister said that she was still emotional from the whole experience.
After the baths we went out by the Prairie to gather WYD kids in Lourdes. We all celebrated Mass, and Father was able to concelebrate. It was strange to hear most of the Mass in different languages. Sheyla was able to read in the Mass. I started to feel a spiritual block. How could I? I just bathed in the holy waters of Lourdes. But I continued throughout my day all the same because I know I am here for a reason: to see God.
From Mass we went into the Grotto. It was so special. I placed my finger rosary along the rock while I ran my hand down the wall of the Gotto. The rock was very smooth, and my only speculation is that it is because so many millions have people have placed their hands on here prior to me. I saw the spring from which Bernadette drank muddy water while I was up there as well. It ws almost bursting at its source. It seems like most of the citys water comes from this spring.
We later met with Kyleto say the lower stations. This was perfect because there were 3 things that were needed to “officially” complete the bath at Lourdes. This included Eucharist, the Way of the Cross, and Confession. Two down, one to go. The stations though were awesome. Statues of stations outside with the setting of the river and the mountains behind. They went quickly, but they were still pretty cool. I want to pray for Kyle to remain in line to servicing you Lord. He took us to the Basicilia of the Rosary and we said goodbye.
We had some free time, so I went with a group to go see the upper stations (called so because they are on the mountatin). They were even more beautiful than the lower stations consisting of larger than life statues spanning 20 feet each.
Afterwards, we met up with Father and other people from the group to meet at the youth village for the candlelight procession. We got lost and never made it, but I loved the adventure anyways. We were able to see the countryside of Lourdes where it is so much easier to see Gods gifts…at least to me it is. Nature is such a beautiful gift for God, I feel like I could live in the mountains forever. About getting lost though, Father said it was probably just as well because we would have gotten stuck in the procession and confession would definitely not have been possible.
The candlelight Vigil of teh Assumption took us around Lourdes and really wore me out. But Confession was to follow this.
I felt a burning urge to go complete the process of the baths though. I confessed what I could remember and was provided with such words of wisdom and a great penance. As much as I hate to admit it, I broke down in tears trying to explain my compellin gurge to keep pushing myself physically to the brink. Fathers words were amazing, and the block was lifted from my spirit. I now see my struggles in a new light and hopefully I am able to rid them.
I love God with all my heart, and I pray that I am able to become ever closer to Him as we travel to Madrid tomorrow and see the Pope. Let him be a guide to you Lord. And help me to chose the ways in which to service you. I pray that you show my the way as I open my heart to hear your message Lord. Thank you for he blessing of allowing me to be here and my parents being able to afford it.
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