I felt my dirt washed away in Lourdes

In June 2018, the diocese of Paris (France) organized a pilgrimage to Lourdes, called Chemins de fraternité (Paths of Fraternity). About fifteen prostitutes, helped by the Saint Rita Ministries of Paris, joined the group.

These people (most of them women) work–or used to work–in the red-light districts of Paris. Some are transsexuals from South America, Nigerian victims of human trafficking, and women of French origin who have worked in prostitution for years ... They come from diverse backgrounds, and many of them are on the margins of society. Oftentimes, prostitution brings loneliness with it.

On the trip back, many shared that they had experienced an inner transformation. "For me the greatest moment was when I was immersed in the baths," says Eliana. "I felt something that is hard to describe and after that, a great peace. I felt my dirt washed away and the weight I carried on my shoulders is gone." Another person, Eliza, explains that she confessed her sins for the first time since she was a girl. "I am so happy and I feel at peace," she explains.

Aleteia