Order of Malta Volunteers

We have two principle aims:

• To offer people suffering from debilitating illnesses, learning and physical disabilities or from social exclusion the chance to enjoy a break from their normal environment. We run a range of trips of which the Lourdes pilgrimage is the largest.
• To provide young people with the opportunity to volunteer and work with people with disabilities or social behavioural problems.

Every year we run an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes

The annual OMV pilgrimage to Lourdes is a unique experience. During the week we undertake a mixture of spiritual and social activities, celebrating the appearance of Our Lady to Saint Bernadette, discovering the healing spirit of Lourdes and spending time with friends.

The volunteers take on all the care of our guests, or Hospital Pilgrims (HPs) who stay in the St Frai Hospital, rotating duties in shifts throughout the week. For many it is the first time they have undertaken this type of work and it is demanding and rewarding in equal measure.

Take a look at photos from last year's pilgrimage (via our facebook page)

Before you start making your application please read all the information available on the site about the application process and the pilgrimage itself. In particular, please note that you are required to pay for the cost of the pilgrimage when you apply.

Applying

Details of the application process, including our selection criteria for volunteers and when you can expect to hear whether your application has been successful. Read more ...

Cost & Bursaries

Information on the cost of the pilgrimage and the discounts and bursaries that may be available to you. If you are thinking of applying for a student/travel discount, or want to apply for a larger bursary, please read this information carefully before starting your application. Read more ...

Training

We have a compulsory training day for all first time volunteers on 2nd June. This page explains in the purpose of the day and what you will need to bring with you. Read more ...

In Lourdes

What is expected of you as a volunteer, what to wear, how much money to bring etc. Read more ...

Contact us

A quick snapshot of the team that organises the pilgrimage and who to contact if your question is not answered elsewhere on the site. Read more ...