Two groups within our Pastoral group recently visited the “Ladyewell Shrine” at Fernyhalgh to the north of Preston.
Devotion to Our Lady of Fernyhalgh goes back through the ages to the 11th century. Pilgrims continue to make their way to this beautiful shrine where they intercede to Our Blessed Lady, bring their petitions and leave unburdened and spiritually renewed. They also take away with them water from the well and use it in invocation to Our Blessed Lady who inspires great devotion.
Fernyhalgh is the Diocesan Shrine of Lancaster and encompasses the beautiful church of St Mary and Ladyewell House and grounds, which is the site of the well.
Our groups met at Lisieux Hall and traveled in convoy to Ladyewell. Father Earnest celebrated Mass for our groups (Friends in Faith and Saturday Space). He shared our love of happy rejoicing music and led us in several songs during a lovely service. We then moved to the conservatory for tea, coffee and refreshments. Many of us bought gifts from the repository for family and friends.
As we visited in the evening we didn’t have time to fully look around the shrine where there are various other areas well worthy of a visit.
We are grateful to Fr Earnest and their staff for making us so welcome and hope to see them again next year.
Michael Holden – Member of the Pastoral Team
