Lourdes Jubilee Year - 150th Anniversary of the Apparitions

Lourdes has drawn pilgrims since Mary appeared in 1858 to shepherdess Bernadette Soubirous. The Jubilee celebration started on the feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8, 2007) and will end this year on Mary's feast once again in December. Of course, February 11th will be a very special feast day. Pope Benedict XVI has authorized a plenary indulgence to mark the 150th anniversary of the Virgin Mary's apparitions in Lourdes. Those visiting the site during the Jubilee year will be able to receive a special indulgence, which can reduce time in purgatory. Purgatory is a kind of "spiritual waiting room" - for people who do not go directly to paradise or hell after death - to purify souls of residual sin before they enter heaven. The Pope is expected to visit the shrine during the Jubilee year. The pontiff also said believers who prayed at places of worship dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes from 2-11 February 2008 - or who were unable to make the journey - would also be able to receive indulgences.