God was preparing Lucia before the visions took place. Father Joe notes that Lucia's mother urged her to ask God to make her a saint, and Lucia made a self-offering.

Marlene Watkins, a dedicated Catholic woman, stands as the visionary behind the Our Lady of Lourdes North American Volunteers Program. Her book titled "20 Everyday Miracles of Lourdes" holds deep resonance within the hearts of the faithful.

Saint Bernadette was born into a loving family that lived at a mill until they fell on hard times. She was a small girl but was loved dearly and she was brought up in the faith. Learn more about her upbringing as we continue our virtual Marian pilgrimage with Fr. Joseph Roesch, MIC.The beautifully photographed book "France: A Pilgrimage with Mary" is now available at ShopMercy.org