Solène Leroux 9:16 a.m., August 15, 2022

Father Hugues de Woillemont, secretary general and spokesman for the Conference of Bishops of France, was the guest of Lionel Gougelot on this day of the Assumption.

"5,000 pilgrims are currently in Lourdes with the national pilgrimage, but [there are] many more who will come to pray and entrust themselves to Mary."

The aspiration of pilgrims to return to Lourdes this year was very strong, after two years of restrictions due to Covid-19.

"5,000 pilgrims are currently in Lourdes with the national pilgrimage, but [there are] many more who will come to pray and entrust themselves to Mary", explained on Europe 1 Father Hugues de Woillemont, secretary general of the Conference of Bishops. of France.

The spokesperson also notes the return of "sick and disabled people" for the pilgrimage.

"They are 500 this year, accompanied by people from hospitality to take care of them and live the pilgrimage with them."

>> Find the 8:13 interview in replay and podcast here

A thought for Ukraine

Foreign pilgrims are also returning, "this year, we note the presence of a hundred Christians from the East", rejoiced Hugues de Woillemont: "It is obviously a celebration for France, but also for the world."

In the prayers planned this year, the faithful will have a very special thought for Ukraine, assures the secretary general of the Conference of Bishops of France: "We also pray partially for peace in Ukraine. Obviously, it is one of our strongest prayer intentions in these days."

Some Ukrainians who have come for the occasion will give their testimonies, "to talk about what they are going through".