Pope Francis addressed a gathering of around 20,000 faithful at the Marian Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption. 

Pope urged the attendees to turn to the Blessed Mother with confidence and devotion, emphasizing their connection as her children. He highlighted the 150th anniversary of the national pilgrimage to the site and expressed joy at the continuation of this tradition of worship and prayer. Pope Francis encouraged pastors to foster a strong love and tenderness towards Mary through popular acts of devotion.

In his concluding remarks, Pope Francis encouraged pilgrims to nurture unshakeable hope rooted in faith. He extended his blessing to those gathered at Lourdes and to all the faithful in France, emphasizing the importance of building lives and societies on the foundation of faith and hope.

Addressing the sick and disabled, the Pope recognized their journeys to Lourdes seeking solace from Mary. He noted that their presence and the support they receive from companions serve as a powerful testament to faith and charity.

Turning his attention to families, Pope Francis asked for special protection for parents who bear heavy responsibilities, for young people navigating uncertainties, and for the often-neglected elderly. He called upon Mary to bring comfort to those suffering, ill, marginalized, or exiled.

The Pope implored Mary, known as the Queen of Peace, to intercede with her Son to establish peace in regions marred by conflict and violence. He urged her to awaken feelings of fraternal love and respect in societies, promoting dignity, rights, and inclusivity for all.

During the gathering at the Marian Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Pope Francis praised the enduring tradition of beautiful processions on the Feast of the Assumption, a practice that has spanned nearly four centuries in France.

He emphasized the vital need for Mary's protection, particularly in a country solemnly consecrated to her, to address the contemporary challenges and concerns.