On October 10, 2015, the Order of Malta celebrated the 19th Annual Lourdes Day at St. Anne’s Home. Every year during the month of May, members of the Order of Malta gather from throughout the world in pilgrimage at the Shrine of our Lady of Lourdes in France. Members of the Western Association of the Order of Malta journey in faith to France, with approximately 50 malades (an affectionate term in French for someone who is ill). Since not all can travel the great distance, the joy of the pilgrimage is recreated at the Grotto of our Lady of Lourdes at St. Anne’s Home. The day begins with a Rosary procession, followed by an outdoor Mass at the Grotto, anointing of the sick, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Malades are welcomed from throughout the Bay Area to join the Little Sisters and St. Anne’s Residents for this extraordinary day. The day is complimented by beautiful music and the caring hands of the Knights and Dames of Malta, who tenderly care for all of their malade guests. This year there were approximately 300 people in attendance, including close to 75 guests from Nazareth House, Handicapables, Laguna Honda, and Alma Via.
Lourdes Day 2015