The annual pilgrimage brought the people of Luxembourg together

The traditional pilgrimage to the monument to Our Lady of Fátima in Wiltz, held to mark the Feast of the Ascension, has once again confirmed its status as one of Luxembourg’s largest religious events. Around 20,000 people took part in the procession, braving the rain and wind. This tradition began in the Grand Duchy in 1952 and has since brought together thousands of worshippers every year, a significant proportion of whom belong to the Portuguese diaspora.

The highlight was the solemn procession to the sanctuary. This year, the crowd of thousands was joined by high-ranking officials: Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, President of the Chamber of Deputies Claude Wiseler, and Prime Minister Luc Frieden. The presence of the country’s leading figures underscores not only the religious but also the significant social importance of the event for the country’s integration and cultural diversity.

The history of this pilgrimage dates back to the events of 1917 in the Portuguese village of Fátima, where, according to church tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children. Brought to Luxembourg, this tradition has evolved into a large-scale expression of collective faith. Many participants set off early in the morning, overcoming physical fatigue for the sake of moments of spiritual unity. For many families, a visit to Wilz has become a fixed fixture in the annual calendar, where the religious aspect is closely intertwined with the opportunity to meet with loved ones and friends.

Despite the poor weather, participants note a special atmosphere of solidarity. The pilgrims interviewed emphasise that the sense of community and the opportunity to share the journey with thousands of like-minded people more than make up for any external inconveniences.