Down and Connor Youth Team Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2026

What to Expect

The Down and Connor Youth Team Pilgrimage is a one-week programme for young Catholics aged 17-24 from parishes across the diocese. Youth team members work alongside the main diocesan pilgrimage, assisting elderly and infirm pilgrims at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes - helping with pushchairs, accompanying pilgrims to services, and providing company and care. In addition to service, the programme includes prayer, community, and social time, making it a significant formational experience. Parishes from Antrim, Ballymena, Larne, Carrickfergus, Newtownabbey, and Belfast regularly send participants. Applications for 2026 opened in January.

Good to Know

• Dates: 10-17 July 2026.

• Open to young people aged 17-24 at the time of travel.

• Applications are handled through the Pilgrimage Office: phone (028) 9077 0162 or email lourdes@downandconnor.org.

• The Youth Team pilgrimage is separate from but runs alongside the main diocesan pilgrimage (8-15 July).

• Parishes such as Ballycastle Catholic Parish actively promote the programme.

Getting There

Flights depart from Belfast International Airport, Aldergrove, approximately 18 miles from Belfast city centre. Translink buses serve the airport from towns across County Antrim.