Pope Leo XIV reflects on the sanctity of St. Bernadette Soubirous

During an apostolic visit to France, Pope Leo XIV delivered a homily at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes regarding the life and legacy of St. Bernadette Soubirous. While she is globally recognized for the 18 apparitions of Mary she experienced at the Lourdes grotto in 1858, the Pope emphasized that her 1933 canonization was based on her life of heroic virtue rather than the apparitions themselves.

Following the events at Lourdes, Soubirous sought a life of simplicity to escape unwanted fame. She spent the final 15 years of her life in prayer and contemplation at the convent of the Sisters of Charity in Nevers, France. The Pope noted that her holiness was demonstrated through the bravery and stamina she displayed while enduring intense questioning and harsh treatment during the investigations into the apparitions.