St. Bernadette’s relics to tour the United States

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes announced the relics of St. Bernadette Soubirous will travel to the United States as part of a 2026–2027 tour intended to bring the beloved saint to Catholic communities across America.

The relics will depart Lourdes, France, and travel to the U.S. in September. The opening celebration will be held Sept. 18–20 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Following the opening, the relics will continue on a yearlong pilgrimage. Housed in a 132-pound reliquary, the relics will visit about 140 locations and stop at cathedrals, basilicas, shrines, seminaries, Catholic universities, hospitals, and parishes.

“The message of Lourdes remains as relevant today as it was in 1858,” said Father Jim Phalan, the English-speaking chaplain for the sanctuary.

“Saint Bernadetteʼs humility, faith, and trust in God continue to inspire people throughout the world. We are honored to bring her relics once again to the United States and invite countless individuals to experience the grace, healing, and hope associated with Lourdes,” he said in a press release.

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