410 Austrian pilgrims led by Military Bishop Werner Freistetter traveled to Lourdes for the 65th International Soldiers’ Pilgrimage from 15 to 19 May. A total of around 17,000 pilgrims from 40 nations took part in the world’s largest peace rally of soldiers.
Origin in peace initiative
The soldiers’ pilgrimage “Pélerinage Militaire International” has its origins in a joint peace initiative by French and German soldiers after the Second World War. Second World War in a desire to overcome mutual resentment. Year after year, millions of believers flock to the Grotto of Masabielle, where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary appeared to a young girl named “Bernadette” in 1858.
Since 1958, thousands of soldiers from all over the world have been coming to the famous Marian pilgrimage site in the south of France every year to bear living witness to peace and pray together.
The Austrian delegation was accompanied by two flag troops from the Theresian Military Academy. The Tyrolean Military Band provided the musical accompaniment for these four days and impressed the international participants with its varied musical repertoire.
Signs of peace and reconciliation
Military Bishop Werner Freistetter summarizes: “Our soldiers’ pilgrimage this year is under a very special star. There are so many conflicts in this world, they seem so insoluble. Here in Lourdes, 17,000 soldiers from numerous nations are meeting and getting to know each other. The pilgrimage originated from a reconciliation initiative between the then hostile nations of Germany and France. Now these soldiers on pilgrimage are sending a signal that peace, reconciliation and joint efforts for peace are possible. We are very grateful to all those who have come here. The pilgrimage is a very special experience.”
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