IN truth, when my 86-year-old mother asked me to go with her to Lourdes, I wasn’t exactly jumping for joy.

Wasn’t this just Holy Joes, praying until their knees were sore? Not exactly my vibe.

She has been many times over the years but felt she was no longer well enough to go unaccompanied.

Of course, I agreed. I knew what it meant to her and felt I could just make the most of it. Before long we were signed up to go as part of the 5-day Dromore Diocesan Pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage as a concept is as old as the hills – pilgrimage for healing, pilgrimage for a cure – but in the past few years there has been a revival in the whole concept.

Many of my friends and colleagues have walked the Camino or gone to Medjugorje or the holy land.

In today’s world of instant gratification, many are searching for meaning. A chance to improve physical and spiritual wellbeing. In a tumultuous world, an escape from relentless negativity.

Since my return, I have been reflecting.

To be honest, I wasn’t sure what it would be like. I’ve never been to Lough Derg or Knock, so had really nothing to compare it to. I went with an open mind and sturdy shoes.

It is easy to be cynical and dismiss the whole thing as a religious theme park. Disney, but with a focus on praying and holiness.

Sceptics will inevitably continue to dispute claims of miracles and........

© The Irish News