The main function of Tullylish Lourdes Committee is to select and provide funding for sick parishioners who wish to go to Lourdes.

The view from the Lourdes Hospital

There are 18 members on the committee 

Chairperson: Maureen Thompson
Secretary: Eilish Knipe
Treasurer: Andy McKinstry.

The bulk of the necessary money is raised through the Annual Supper Dance held in February along with smaller events throughout the year.

Nominations of those who wish to be considered for a place in the hospital are accepted in January. Each case is judged on its urgency and merit and the sick are interviewed by the medical members of the committee before a decision is made.

The central committee of the Lourdes Diocesan Committee allocate a certain number of places to each parish and Tullylish is fortunate enough to have 4 places.

Available members of the Lourdes Committee accompany the sick to Lourdes and tend to their every need while there. This is all done on a voluntary basis and, while it does mean giving up holiday time as well as funding themselves, all who go as a helper say it is more than worthwhile. The helpers are divided into three categories - medical staff, handmaidens (ladies) and brancardiers (gents).

As with all volountary groups, more help is always needed and if you would like to join this fantastic group of people, then contact any of the present committee, or the parish office.

Young people (18+) would be especially welcome.

 Making their way from the hospital
to the daily torchlight procession