Dr. Michael Skoch, a family physician from Holy Angels Parish in Basehor, recently shared his experiences at Lourdes Hospital, a prominent site for Catholic pilgrimages. Located in southwestern France, Lourdes is renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1858 to Bernadette Soubirous. This small town attracts countless visitors seeking healing and spiritual renewal.
Experiencing Lourdes: A Journey of Service
Dr. Skoch has dedicated over 35 years to medicine and has served as an ethics consultant for Catholic Community Health. His recent pilgrimage to Lourdes was marked by his fourth stint volunteering with the Lourdes North American Volunteers program during Holy Week. His work involves assisting pilgrims, particularly those with limited mobility, and supporting their spiritual journeys.
Meaningful Volunteer Work
Volunteers like Dr. Skoch provide essential support. They help pilgrims access services and participate in personal prayer. A particularly moving experience for Dr. Skoch was assisting a man who was not baptized. This individual, unable to walk, was carefully placed into the sacred spring water baths. Afterward, he expressed a desire to be baptized, marking a transformative moment.
The Massabielle Grotto, a focal point in Lourdes, plays a significant role in the pilgrimage experience. Many visitors arrive with profound physical or spiritual needs, relying on the compassion of others. Witnessing the faith and perseverance of these individuals has inspired Dr. Skoch, reinforcing the importance of service.
The Lourdes North American Volunteers Program
- Mission: To serve the sick and suffering, following the example of St. Bernadette.
- Roles: Volunteers provide assistance with meals, wheelchairs, and emotional support.
- Requirements: A willingness to help is the only prerequisite for participation.
Every evening in Lourdes, a candlelight rosary procession draws thousands. Dr. Skoch describes the experience as visually and spiritually uplifting, with 10,000 to 15,000 participants reciting prayers in various languages. This sense of community and shared faith profoundly impacted him.
Looking Ahead
As he reflects on his time in Lourdes, Dr. Skoch is committed to continuing his service. He believes in staying open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and is eager to return to Lourdes. His experiences have not only deepened his faith but also reaffirmed his calling to support those in need.
In conclusion, the journey to Lourdes and the work at Lourdes Hospital is not just about helping others; it’s a transformative experience that enriches the lives of both the volunteers and the pilgrims they serve.
