The Barriers Came

Dear Diary,

After Mass, our Reading Club gathered again beneath the apple tree behind St. Mary’s. Father LeRoy asked me to begin by reading the chapter summary and Mini sat right beside me.

The mayor of Lourdes finally announced that the decree against the Grotto had been revoked. His proclamation was read throughout the town with drums and trumpets, and notices were posted on the walls.

Jacomet and the policemen then went to the Grotto with axes and tools to remove the barriers. A large crowd had already gathered. Some people knelt in prayer, while others quietly waited. Many women prayed their rosaries, and some carried bottles to fill with water from the spring.

No one in the crowd touched the barriers. They waited for the officials who had put them up to remove them.

Jacomet gave a speech, claiming that he had always supported the people and had even pleaded their cause. The crowd listened in cold silence. Then he ordered his men to tear down the barriers and carry the boards away.

Soon the road to the Grotto was filled with people. They knelt before the rocks, sang hymns, prayed the Litany of the Blessed Virgin, and drank from the spring. At last, the faithful were free to pray at Massabielle again.

Robert said it was strange how quickly some officials tried to make themselves appear helpful after the struggle was over.

Sister Mary Claire said, “It is always better to admit that we were wrong than to pretend we were right all along.”

Then Sister surprised us with a beautiful pecan pie and freshly whipped cream. Everyone was delighted. Mini could not have pie, but she received a small dish of plain whipped cream.

When we finished, Father asked me to dismiss the club with prayer.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for giving courage and patience to those who remained faithful during the persecution.

Help us to admit when we are wrong and never pretend that we did good when we did not.

May Our Lady of Lourdes strengthen all who suffer for their faith.

Bless our Reading Club, our families, and all who ask for our prayers.

Amen.

Father gave us his blessing, and we all went home thankful that the barriers had finally come down and the people were free to pray at the Grotto.

Kathy