Since 2009, high school students travel to Lourdes with ASCPG to support the adult volunteer helpers in whatever way they need. But more importantly, they serve as true companions for the special needs pilgrims – we do whatever it takes to make sure they are having the time of their lives! We participate in all daily activities with the pilgrims and their helpers including meals, trips, special events, games, etc; serve as musicians and readers at Mass; organize events such as Thursday’s Party Night; and spend some quality time just hanging out with the group. The “retreat” side of the week happens in the evening and includes reflection time with a youth minister, gatherings with other teens and a mid-week Reconciliation Service.
Listen to some of our Youth Group members…
I attended in 2011, and it was the single greatest week of my life. When I was there, I connected with my group members, the pilgrims and the helpers. The work I did there was not only fun, but also very rewarding. I had never worked with special needs children before, but I’m very glad that I decided to go. There isn’t a bad word I could say about the trip, everyone was nice and had a good time. Again, it was the funnest, most rewarding week of my life and there’s nothing I would want more than to attend Lourdes again next year. Nile H.
Lourdes is a touching/rewarding experience that really teaches you to appreciate the life you have and how much it can mean to people when you help them. Ashling D.
The single greatest/most rewarding experience of my life. Andrew H.
The week I spent in Lourdes was honestly the most rewarding experience in my entire life. Every day was more amazing then the next. The amount of memories I have gained from this trip are priceless. The members of the Youth Group, as well as the pilgrims, are the most incredible people I have ever met, and I have created such strong bonds with them that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I was truly blessed to be a part of such an unforgettable experience. Lourdes is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you can only experience to believe. Megan S.
Life-changing. Jessica W.
It’s a truly eye opening experience that you get to spend with the world’s most inspiring people. You come home with so many memories and new friends. I still keep in touch with many of the pilgrims and love them all to death. Maura O.
Some say that Lourdes is ‘where heaven touches earth’ and I can definitely confirm that. I’ve been to Lourdes with ASCPG 5 times, 3 with the Youth Group. ASCPG is literally my second family. Giving the kids an unforgettable week and watching them leave with a smile on their face makes the trip all worth while. There is no other way I would want to spend my Spring Break than in Lourdes. Maggie F.
