The Catholic Media Federation of France has been organizing the International Days of St. Francis de Sales for the last 25 years. In 2023, they plan to bring 250 journalists and communication leaders together for a pilgrimage from January 25th to the 27th.
FR. MICHEL DAUBANES
Director, Sanctuary of Lourdes
The Days of St. Francis de Sales are an opportunity to reflect on concrete questions of communication, understanding and Catholicism in a world that is sometimes indifferent and hostile to all the problems that have been described. I believe, I hope, that these days will also be an occasion to rest, also spiritually, in this sanctuary which is a place of grace.
The new director of the Sanctuary of Lourdes was appointed in September 2022. He believes that a pilgrimage in honor of the patron saint of journalists can help re-communicate the essence of the Church in turbulent times. Among other reasons is the sexual abuse scandals in France that have damaged the Church's credibility.
FR. MICHEL DAUBANES
Director, Sanctuary of Lourdes
The Church will be heard if it is credible. The challenge then will be for the shrine to make the pilgrim think about which church we want to fight for. What perhaps our contribution, our piety, has brought to the structure. And in Lourdes, there is the service to the sick, the care of the little ones, the attention to others, and a fraternity without frontiers.
The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, will also attend the pilgrimage. He will present the Father Jacques Hamel Award in honor of the French priest murdered while celebrating Mass in 2016. It recognizes a journalistic work that has made a significant contribution towards peace.
RM
TR: MG
