Dieuze. A tenth pilgrimage to Lourdes for the hospital students of La Providence high school

Since 2013, the pilgrimage to Lourdes, supervised by the Diocese of Metz, has been an integral part of the lives of students at the La Providence vocational high school in Dieuze. Accompanied by their teacher Christine Kazmierczak, these young people, most of whom are from the ASSP (Accompaniment, Care, and Personal Services) section, put their skills into practice during this journey to serve the most vulnerable . In recent years, students from other sections have joined them, captivated by this unique human adventure.

From the moment they depart from Metz station, they take care of pilgrims requiring assistance: assistance on the train, accompaniment to meals, washing, dressing, constant presence during religious ceremonies and other highlights of the stay. A total commitment over several days.

This week in Lourdes remains etched in the memories of the participants each time. For Laura, who was participating for the second time, this edition was "the most beautiful": "The human contact with the patients but also the hospital staff remains one of the most beautiful things I have experienced. Everyone's smile is for me the most beautiful thank you." She also confides the difficulty of the return: "The moment when you unpack your suitcase, when you no longer return to the sick hotel, that's when you realize it's over. And that you're already looking forward to next July."

Clarisse, also deeply affected, describes Lourdes as much more than a place: "It is a meeting of faith, of encounter and of love. Their strength is a true lesson in life." She describes with emotion carrying a candle at the head of the Marian procession: "Leading the march with this light in my hand, surrounded by thousands of pilgrims singing the Ave Maria ... It is a moment I will never forget."

Lisa, who was participating for the first time, spoke of a wonderful experience: "I was particularly touched by the moments of sharing and conviviality experienced with the sick people."

This pilgrimage is much more than an internship or a school trip. For these young people, it represents a true life lesson. By putting their professional skills to work for others, they discover empathy, solidarity, and the power of commitment. This project, which began in September, allows these high school students to grow both personally and professionally. In Lourdes, they are not only learning about their future careers; they are already experiencing its full human significance.