Saint Bernadette
Saint Bernadette and the Immaculate Conception StatuesIn 1858, 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes, France, experienced a series of 18 visions of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. The Virgin Mary revealed her own Immaculate Conception, meaning she was conceived without original sin, a doctrine defined by Pope Pius IX four years earlier. Guided by the Virgin Mary, Saint Bernadette uncovered a spring of healing waters at Lourdes. Despite skepticism, her quiet faith and humility won hearts. Saint Bernadette joined the Sisters of Charity of Nevers and lived a private life of prayer and service until her death in 1879. Canonized in 1933, Saint Bernadette remains a symbol of simplicity and trust in God. Saint Bernadette’s feast day is April 16. (Kremer, 2026) Photo from St. Louis, Missouri, 2026.