Sandra Santhosh |
Religion is not having a great time right now due to the pessimistic perception portrayed on it by the media about the sombre events which have happened lately.
However, there are still people who look at religion and see the beauty of it such as the HCPT, a charity which offers disabled and disadvantaged people from the UK and abroad to go on pilgrimage holiday every year to Lourdes, France.
This year’s theme is ‘Thanks be to God!’
2016 marks the HCPT’s 60th anniversary – their Diamond Jubilee. For 60 years, disabled and disadvantaged children and adults alike have made the trip to Lourdes. During that period they have been ‘changing lives through pilgrimage.’
Georgina McReynolds, a volunteer from HCPT, said –
‘I went with HCPT. I think it was spiritually very uplifting- although the children were sick, we managed to do all the usual activities such as: playing football, had picnics, parties and games. It’s a wonderful feeling seeing the happy faces on the kids! ’
John Browne, who is studying for priesthood, said he had an ‘inspiring’ time:
“HCPT pilgrimages have a different tone to your average pilgrimage. HCPT pilgrimages are very joyful. Joy is at the heart of the charity… New friends are made, powerful stories are shared, and hopes and dreams are brought to the Grotto and Our Lady. Take courage, and put yourself in God’s caring hands.”
Each person who has had an opportunity to go on these pilgrimages has said that they’re ‘thankful’. Thankful, because they were revealed to the power of faith displayed by all present in Lourdes. Thankful, due to the kindness others had to help those less fortunate to come to a place of holiness, and gratitude. Thankful, as they were able to witness the love God has through each other.
True, it is quite hard to be optimistic and comprehend the goodness religion has when we are surrounded by disheartening, dispiriting times. Yet others, who less fortunate than us, can experience God’s love. If they can see God in a positive light in troubled times, why shouldn’t
