The Order of Malta Western Association U.S.A. is looking for Hawaii Catholics with a life changing illness or physical challenge to go on a pilgrimage next year, April 26 to May 4, to wash in the healing waters of Lourdes, France.
The trip is free for the ill person, whom the Order of Malta refers to a “malade.” However, he or she must travel with a paying caregiver.
To be considered as a malade, contact Thomas Cabrinha at thomascabrinha@att.net or (808) 284-3224, or Darryl Wong at dwong@99imperial.net or (808) 381-2711.
The malade must be able physically to make the trip. Those on dialysis or other treatments that would cause them to miss processions, visits to the grotto spring, meals and Masses, will not likely be selected.
Likewise, the malade’s caregiver must be able to participate in all the events and assist the malade if needed. Vaccinations for both COVID-19 and the flu are required.
The pilgrimage leaves from Los Angeles on April 26. The air and land travel cost for the malade’s companion is $3,600.
The Order of Malta is a 900-year old international lay Catholic religious order that cares for people in need. This is the 47th Western Association Lourdes pilgrimage.