Location
Within the Sanctuary Domain, adjacent to the Basilica complex
Open
Daily from early morning to late evening (April–October)
Languages
English, French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, German, Portuguese and more
Cost
Free (no appointment needed)
Priests available
English-speaking priests available daily throughout the season
The Chapel of Reconciliation is one of the most visited locations in the entire Lourdes Sanctuary Domain, because it is here that the transformative Sacrament of Reconciliation — commonly known as Confession — is offered to pilgrims in dozens of languages, including English, around the clock during the pilgrimage season. The chapel was purpose-built to handle the extraordinary number of pilgrims seeking the sacrament: it contains multiple individual confessionals and a team of multilingual priests is present for many hours of the day. For many pilgrims, the Confession at Lourdes is the most personally transformative experience of their entire visit, and the Chapel of Reconciliation exists precisely to make that encounter as accessible as possible.
Confession at Lourdes
The Sacrament of Reconciliation has been at the heart of Lourdes since Bernadette herself first confessed to Fr Pomian in 1858. Our Lady asked her to "pray for sinners" — a message that shaped the sanctuary's entire spiritual identity. The Chapel of Reconciliation was built to honour this invitation. Pilgrims queue in a peaceful waiting area; individual confessionals allow a private encounter with a priest in your language. There is no obligation and no time pressure.
What to Expect
On entering, you will find a welcoming space with prayer aids, bibles and examinations of conscience available in multiple languages. Volunteer welcomers will direct you to the correct language confessional. The sacrament itself follows the standard Catholic form: a brief account of sins, words of counsel from the priest, and absolution. Many pilgrims describe the lightness they feel afterwards as one of the most powerful experiences of their pilgrimage.
For Non-Catholics
Non-Catholic Christians and those of other faiths or none are welcome to enter the chapel for silent prayer. The chapel is a place of profound peace and many pilgrims use it simply as a quiet space for reflection. Priests are also available for pastoral conversation without the Sacrament for those who wish to speak with someone.
Pilgrim Tips
- ✓Early morning (07:30–09:00) and late afternoon (17:00–19:00) are quieter times for the sacrament
- ✓English-speaking priests are present throughout the day; ask a volunteer welcomer for the English confessional
- ✓The preparation booklets available inside are a helpful guide for pilgrims who have been away from the Sacrament for some time
- ✓After Confession, the Grotto is a perfect place to spend quiet time in thanksgiving
Visit Chapel of Reconciliation on a guided pilgrimage
All our packages include guided visits to the major Sanctuary sites with an expert English-speaking leader.
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