Aria

I have wanted to go to Lourdes ever since I was a little girl. As I got older, I grew closer to Bernadette and always admired her for her strength and persistence when it came to her faith life. I eventually chose her name as my Confirmation name so I was thrilled when I was chosen to go on this pilgrimage and walk in her footsteps. Upon arriving in Lourdes, I quickly realized that what makes Lourdes so special is the people you meet there. Their courage, faith, and love is so inspiring and is proof that a little piece of Heaven exists here on Earth. After returning from Lourdes, my life once again returned to it’s busy (all good things!), event-filled schedule but I have never once forgotten my experience last spring in the serene grotto of our Mother…it is something I carry with me every day. It has changed the way I look at other people, my life, and has reinforced in me the belief that everything happens for a reason. When Mary calls us, it is because it is at the right time for us, and only she and her Son know when that is. I love sharing my experience at Lourdes with people I meet, especially other students on campus. I believe going to Lourdes is something that everyone should experience during their lifetime at least once, so I enjoy encouraging others to take part in this special privilege. I myself plan to visit the grotto for many years to come. The Grotto is home.