THE JERSEY ACROSS GROUP was formed in 1983 and its aim is to provide sick/disabled/disadvantaged local residents, who are unable to travel independently, with a holiday/pilgrimage to Lourdes. Although the Group has a Christian base and ethos the selection of unable travellers does not take into account the religion (or lack of religion) of an applicant.
The Jersey Across Group is an incorporated association registered in the Royal Court of Jersey, is recognised for tax exemption by the Controller of Income Tax and is a member of the Association of Charities.
The 45 strong group that travels each year ideally consists of a priest, 4 nurses, 20 voluntary helpers and 20 unable travellers, with each helper making a substantial financial contribution toward their travel costs. The unable travellers are not required to pay for their travel, food, accommodation or excursions although donations are gratefully received.
In the past our transport from St. Malo to Lourdes was by road, but in recent years we have travelled by air and stayed in purpose built accommodation in the countryside 3 km from Lourdes town.
During our week long stay in Lourdes we participate in several religious services and processions, take excursions into the mountains and several other places of interest and generally enjoy ourselves just as any large group of friends on holiday.
The reasons why both the able and the unable make this journey are as diverse as the people themselves. Disability is often lonely, so we provide not only a change of scenery but also the opportunity to holiday with a group where all have time to spare for each other. Some members of the party wish to visit the Grotto and shrines of Our Lady in search of physical and spiritual strength and renewal. For some of the unable the Group is the only way that they can have a holiday away from Jersey, for others it can make them aware that despite their disability, travel is possible and gives them confidence to plan trips in future years. For those who live at home it can also provide welcome respite for their carers in Jersey. Certainly very few travellers return unmoved by the experience of Lourdes whether or not it is acknowledged as a spiritual experience.
