The 18th and last Marian apparition at Lourdes: a message of peace and faith
On 16 July 1858, the Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes was the scene of the 18th and last apparition of the Virgin Mary to Bernadette Soubirous. This apparition marked the conclusion of a series of miraculous events that have profoundly transformed the town of Lourdes into a world-renowned place of pilgrimage. We take a look back at this ultimate moment and the events surrounding it.
A special context: the closure of the grotto
This latest apparition took place in special circumstances. Since the first apparition on 11 February 1858, increasing numbers of people had been visiting the grotto at Massabielle, attracting the attention of the local authorities. In June of the same year, because of this growing popularity and fears of disorder, the grotto was closed by the civil authorities. Palisades and barriers prevented access to the place where Bernadette had seen the Virgin.
A vision from a distance
Despite the bans, Bernadette, then aged 14, felt the Virgin's call. Accompanied by members of her family, she went to the banks of the Gave de Pau, just opposite the grotto, on the other side of the river. It was from there, from a distance, that she saw the Virgin Mary for the 18th and last time. This vision is notable for its simplicity and peace. There is no particular message this time, just the silent, benevolent presence of the Lady.
A symbol of peace and perseverance
The date of 16 July is not insignificant. It is the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a Marian title associated with devotion to the scapular and spiritual protection. By appearing on this day, the Virgin seems to reinforce the idea of constant, maternal protection. Despite the obstacles put in place by the authorities, the apparition bears witness to the persistence of the Virgin's faith and benevolence towards Bernadette and all believers.
The silence of the last apparition
In contrast to some of the previous apparitions where the Virgin had communicated important messages, particularly concerning penance, prayer and the building of a chapel, this last encounter was marked by silence. However, this silence is eloquent. It symbolises a peaceful conclusion to the extraordinary events that marked the year 1858 and that would continue to transform Lourdes in the decades to come.
A lasting spiritual legacy
This final apparition brings to a close a unique cycle of Marian events at Lourdes. Bernadette would never see the Virgin again, but her testimony and the miracles associated with these apparitions left an indelible mark on the town. A few years after this 18th apparition, the ecclesiastical authorities officially recognised the authenticity of the apparitions, and Lourdes became one of the most important pilgrimage centres in the Catholic world.
Today, the message of peace and faith conveyed during these apparitions continues to attract millions of pilgrims, making the Grotto of Massabielle a place of prayer, healing and spiritual reflection.
