The Journey of Grace ~ The Visitation of the Relics of Saint Bernadette
Press Release
Saint Bernadette Catholic Church will welcome the Relics of Its Patron Saint as Part of the National Journey of Grace Pilgrimage from Lourdes, France
The faithful of Northern Virginia will have an extraordinary opportunity to welcome and venerate the relics of Saint Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes when they visit Saint Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield, Virginia, November 5–6, 2026.
Parishioners, Catholics throughout the Diocese of Arlington and visitors from the wider community are invited to come for prayer, Mass, Marian devotion and veneration of the relics.
All are welcome. Admission is free.
Schedule of Events
Thursday, November 5
3:00 pm — Relics Welcoming Celebration
The arrival of Saint Bernadette's relics will be marked by a welcoming celebration, followed by an opportunity for veneration.
6:30 pm — Mass
Mass will be celebrated, followed by veneration of the relics.
8:00 pm — Candlelight Rosary Procession
The parish community will gather for a candlelight Rosary procession, followed veneration of the relics until 10:00 pm.
Friday, November 6
1:00 pm — Mass
Mass will be celebrated, followed by veneration of the relics.
3:00 pm — Farewell Celebration
We will conclude with a farewell celebration as the relics depart Saint Bernadette.
From Lourdes to America
In 1858, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared 18 times to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous at the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, France. During the apparitions, Mary called for prayer and penance and revealed herself to Bernadette as the Immaculate Conception.
The Journey of Grace pilgrimage follows the extraordinary response to the first U.S. pilgrimage of Saint Bernadette's relics in 2022, which welcomed hundreds of thousands of faithful at churches and shrines across the country.
Throughout the 2026–2027 pilgrimage, visitors will have opportunities for veneration of the relics, celebration of the Eucharist, Marian devotions, prayer for the sick and other opportunities to encounter the spirituality and message of Lourdes.
About Saint Bernadette
What are the Relics?
Who is Saint Bernadette ?
About Miracles
Prayers
Visiting Lourdes
as a Pilgrim
©, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Pierre Vincent, do not reproduce without written authorization, do not use for commercial purpose.
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