By: Sofia Rivera '26
As known by Chez Nous’s upperclassmen, Notre Dame aspires to incorporate the religious foundation of our school into everyday student life. As February rolls around, we are once again reminded of the importance of the saints. Some of this is done through the upcoming Our Lady of Lourdes Celebration. But to understand the reason behind the event, we must first ask ourselves: Who is Our Lady of Lourdes?
There is no way to talk about her without mentioning St. Bernadette. Born in Lourdes, France in 1844, Bernadette was the eldest daughter of nine children. She was a sickly child, which was partly caused by her family’s poverty. At the age of 14, she experienced the first of many miracles. At the grotto of Massabielle, she encountered a woman with a surreal light surrounding her. In reverence, she kneeled in front of her and began to pray. This was a strange occurrence for her sister, as she could not see this apparition.
In the days that followed, Bernadette fervently prayed at the grotto, at her family’s behest. Her visit on March 2nd, however, would encompass a life-changing experience. The apparition, known to her as the Immaculate Conception, told Bernadette that a chapel should be built by the grotto. It took years before her request was regarded as valid, and eventually, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
Because of Notre Dame’s French roots, it is understandable why this iconic religious figure plays such an important role in our education. On that note, the celebration was held on February 17th. It was chock-full of not only useful and enlightening information, but also entertainment such as music and art, all presented by our students. I strongly encourage all of my Chez Nous Sisters to look towards involving themselves in next year's festivities to join the tradition themselves.
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Edited by: Catherine Polatidis '26, Katarina Radulovic '24, Natalia Cseh '23, and Ms. Brilliant
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