Signs of Lourdes: the Rock, the embrace with God

Touching the rock represents the embrace of God, who is our rock. Tracing history, we know that caves have always served as a natural shelter and have stimulated the imagination of men. Here in Massabielle, as in Bethlehem and Gethsemane, the rock of the Grotto has also repaired the supernatural. Without ever having studied, Bernadette knew instinctively and said: "It was my sky." In front of this hollow in the rock you are invited to go inside; you see how smooth, shiny the rock is, thanks to billions of caresses. As you pass, take the time to look at the inexhaustible spring, at the bottom left.

Prayer to Our Lady of Lourdes

O Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, health of the sick, refuge of sinners, consoler of the afflicted, You know my needs, my sufferings; deign to turn a favorable gaze upon me to my relief and comfort. By appearing in the grotto of Lourdes, you wanted it to become a privileged place, from which to spread your graces, and many unhappy people have already found the remedy for their spiritual and corporal infirmities. I too am full of confidence to implore your maternal favors; hear my humble prayer, tender Mother, and filled with your benefits, I will endeavor to imitate your virtues, to participate one day in your glory in Paradise. Amen.

3 Ave Maria

Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us.

Blessed be the Holy and Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

Prayers to the Madonna of Lourdes

Docile to the invitation of your motherly voice, O Immaculate Virgin of Lourdes, we run to your feet at the cave, where you deigned to appear to indicate to sinners the path of prayer and penance and to dispense the graces and wonders of yours to the suffering sovereign goodness. O candid Vision of Paradise, remove the darkness of error from the minds with the light of faith, lift up heartbroken souls with the heavenly scent of hope, revive the dry hearts with the divine wave of charity. Make us love and serve your sweet Jesus, so as to deserve eternal happiness. Amen.