The Children’s Pilgrimage Trust Off to Lourdes
Each year during Easter week, HCPT - The Children’s Pilgrimage Trust,
takes around 2000 children with disabilities or social or emotional
needs on a pilgrimage holiday to Lourdes. The holiday features visits
to the Grotto and outings to the local cafes and villages high up in
the French Pyrenees, amidst spectacular scenery. The aim is to give the
children an enjoyable holiday infused with the warmth and affection of
caring friends.
HCPT was formed in 1956 when a young doctor, Michael Strode, took four children with disabilities to Lourdes. From the onset he insisted that they should be treated just like other pilgrims, and should be accommodated in hotels rather than hospitals.
Now, 50 years later, HCPT takes about 2000 children aged from 7 to 18 from the UK, Ireland and other countries who have a range of special needs. Organised into family groups, the children are assisted by helpers who ensure that the children enjoy the holiday to the full.
One of these groups is based in our own parish (St Bonaventure’s in Bishopston, Bristol). It was formed 10 years ago by Father Tom Finnegan who now leads the group. On Easter Sunday 17 adult helpers from St Bon’s will be flying out of Bristol airport with 12 youngsters to join in with the golden jubilee celebrations. Special events in Lourdes have been organised including a huge firework display and a balloon launch.
Through the work of the HCPT helpers, the children get a special holiday in Lourdes full of fun, challenge and love. Lourdes is a place of miracles – and there are plenty – all little ones. An uncommunicative child learns to smile and then laugh. Others build a sense of self worth.
We are extremely grateful to all of you who support us so generously with your prayers, kindness and donations. A special candle will be lit for all your intentions in Lourdes. If you would like to know more about our work, or would like to become involved in our fundraising events please contact one of the group.
This article was first published St Bonaventure’s Parish Magazine
Useful URL : http://www.st-bons.org.uk
HCPT was formed in 1956 when a young doctor, Michael Strode, took four children with disabilities to Lourdes. From the onset he insisted that they should be treated just like other pilgrims, and should be accommodated in hotels rather than hospitals.
Now, 50 years later, HCPT takes about 2000 children aged from 7 to 18 from the UK, Ireland and other countries who have a range of special needs. Organised into family groups, the children are assisted by helpers who ensure that the children enjoy the holiday to the full.
One of these groups is based in our own parish (St Bonaventure’s in Bishopston, Bristol). It was formed 10 years ago by Father Tom Finnegan who now leads the group. On Easter Sunday 17 adult helpers from St Bon’s will be flying out of Bristol airport with 12 youngsters to join in with the golden jubilee celebrations. Special events in Lourdes have been organised including a huge firework display and a balloon launch.
Through the work of the HCPT helpers, the children get a special holiday in Lourdes full of fun, challenge and love. Lourdes is a place of miracles – and there are plenty – all little ones. An uncommunicative child learns to smile and then laugh. Others build a sense of self worth.
We are extremely grateful to all of you who support us so generously with your prayers, kindness and donations. A special candle will be lit for all your intentions in Lourdes. If you would like to know more about our work, or would like to become involved in our fundraising events please contact one of the group.
This article was first published St Bonaventure’s Parish Magazine
Useful URL : http://www.st-bons.org.uk
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