Liverpool pupils thrilled by HCPT pilgrimage to Lourdes

Fearne and Lydia from St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary School, Norris Green, Liverpool

Two Year 6 pupils, Fearne and Lydia, recently took part in a life-changing pilgrimage to Lourdes. The experience gave Fearne and Lydia the chance to explore their faith, make new friends, and enjoy a week of meaningful activities

Fearne and Lydia travelled as part of the annual HCPT pilgrimage. HCPT (Hosanna House and Children's Pilgrimage Trust) is a charity that offers supported pilgrimage holidays to Lourdes, in the south of France, and brings together children and young people from all walks of life.

The experience gave Fearne and Lydia the chance to explore their faith, make new friends, and enjoy a week of meaningful activities in one of the world's most significant Catholic pilgrimage destinations.

The pupils took part in a packed programme of events and excursions, including visits to the Grotto, where Our Lady appeared to Saint Bernadette, and to Saint Bernadette's childhood home and the 'Cachot', where her family lived during the time of the apparitions.

They attended Easter Sunday Mass and took part in the Tuesday evening torchlight procession. A particular highlight for Fearne and Lydia was the Thursday Trust Mass in the Underground Basilica, where they joined over 5,000 pilgrims from around the world.

Lydia said: "My favourite part was visiting the Basilica as I loved singing 'Rise and Shine' and 'My Lighthouse'. In the Grotto, we touched the rock as we walked through, and this made me feel part of St Bernadette's life story. We have made special memories that will last forever."

Fearne added: "It wasn't just a holiday, it was about learning about how strong our faith is. The torchlight procession was so special, and I was amazed at how many people were there sharing it. We washed our hands and face in the holy spring waters too.

"Both Lydia and I would love to go back again next year. We'd like to say a huge thank you for the once-in-a-lifetime chance and a huge thank you to all of Group 133."

Headteacher of St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary Academy, Mr Paul Ackers, said: "We are incredibly proud of Fearne and Lydia for embracing this unique opportunity with such enthusiasm.

"It was a chance not only to explore a place of deep spiritual importance but also to make new friends, build confidence, and create memories that will stay with them for life."

Father Tony Slingo, parish priest of St Teresa of the Child Jesus in Norris Green, commented: "I'm thrilled that Fearne and Lydia found joy in their pilgrimage to Lourdes with such a lively and friendly group. When I saw them at the reunion Mass in our church the week after their return, they were still lit up from the experience, and seemed about three years older in confidence. They were relating with such ease to people of all ages and walks of life.

"This experience is such a key part of helping our young people appreciate the best of our faith - peers being so genuine and normal in their way of life, with loving kindness to all in need, and the happiness they discover from sharing faith and life in service... and singing too!

Father Tony added: "We're really looking forward to Fearn and Lydia helping show us, as a parish, how we can support them in building on the new friendships and connections they've made, both at school and here in the parish."

St Teresa of Lisieux Catholic Primary Academy is located on Utting Avenue East in Norris Green, Liverpool. It is proud to be part of All Saints Multi Academy Trust.