Scottish Catholic Observer

Joe Bradley, a parishioner at St Augustine’s Church in Coatbridge, completed the annual Peace Walk, a 136-mile journey from Middletown, Co Armagh to Knock, Co Mayo, between July 17 and 21, to raise funds for those going to Lourdes.

Mr Bradley has travelled to the popular Marian pilgrimage site annually since his days at university, and believes the pilgrimage can be ‘critical’ for many young people.

Annual Lourdes trip

“Since my undergraduate days I have been travelling annually to Lourdes in southern France with groups of children and young people that have learning needs, difficult home circumstances, or who simply benefit greatly from such a holiday/pilgrimage,” he said.

“Lourdes has the capacity to provide much in terms of friendships, support, respite, fun, education and of course spirituality.

“The story of Lourdes encourages us to focus on what counts and a visit there can be critical for many young people. However, it costs around £800 to get each young person to Lourdes.”

Mr Bradley took part in the Peace walk, which is a legacy of The Troubles and the wish for peace between Ireland and Britain, as a fundraiser and it proved to be a great success.

“It was a fantastic experience in more ways than one,” he said. “Wonderful people participating and a very fulfilling experience.”

Difficulties

However, he added that the journey was not without its difficulties over the five days for the 35-strong walking team and the 30-person back-up team consisting of cooks, a masseuse, blister and shin-splint experts, drivers, musicians, spiritual advisors and more.

Mr Bradley said that, as the days progressed, he witnessed ‘quite a few sprains, kinesio taping, strains, a couple of crutches and a few not being allowed to continue.’

Endurance

“It’s a real endurance test for almost everyone—even the staying overnight in sleeping bags/camp beds in parish halls/gyms could be difficult—I didn’t realise there were so many different ways to snore!—as was walking in heavy rain for a few hours on end.

“Training is very difficult for such a task and not too many have the time to do this properly—probably walking 15-20 miles on at least one day every week for a few months is a minimum requirement.

“Anyway, it’s done. Many thanks for your support for the Lourdes cause.

“Thanks to all who have supported me, and this cause.”

To donate to Mr Bradley’s Lourdes fund, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lourdespilgrimagesholidays?utm_id=2&utm_term=gZbZkvpKp