This article was written by Anthony Gagliardi, MD, GCM, Pilgrimage Medical Director. 

The annual pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, holds a significant place in the hearts of many seeking spiritual healing and solace. The Order of Malta meticulously organizes this pilgrimage, ensuring that every malade (the French term for a sick person) and caregiver is carefully selected and prepared for the journey. The selection process is both detailed and comprehensive, involving multiple stages and thorough reviews to ensure the best possible experience for all involved.

The process begins with a request for applications. This initial step is crucial as it sets the stage for identifying potential malades who wish to participate in the pilgrimage. The Order of Malta invites applications from individuals who meet specific criteria, ensuring that those who truly need the pilgrimage have the opportunity to apply. Once the applications are requested, they undergo an initial review to ensure that they meet the basic eligibility criteria. This review helps to filter out any applications that do not conform to the guidelines, allowing the selection committee to focus on the most suitable candidates.

After the initial review, the applications are released to the members of the Order. These members, who are deeply involved in the pilgrimage process, play a crucial role in the subsequent steps. They ensure that the process is transparent, fair, and aligned with the Order’s mission. Next, the sponsor transmits the application to the potential malade. The sponsor, often a member of the Order, acts as a liaison between the Order and the malade, guiding them through the application process and ensuring that all necessary information is provided.

The malade, along with their caregiver and pertinent physicians, completes the application. This step is critical as it provides comprehensive information about the malade’s medical condition, travel fitness, and specific needs during the pilgrimage. The involvement of caregivers and physicians ensures that the application is accurate and complete. Once completed, the application is submitted to the Order office, specifically directed to Carla, who oversees the application process. Carla’s role is pivotal in coordinating the subsequent steps, ensuring that the applications are processed efficiently and effectively.

The applications are then assembled for a thorough review. Initially, the medical director reviews each application to assess the medical details and ensure that all necessary information is provided. Following this, the applications are reviewed by the medical members (physician and nursing) of the Malade Selection Committee. This detailed review process evaluates the ability and fitness for travel, nursing concerns, and other medical considerations.

Each application is scored based on various factors, including the malade’s medical condition, travel fitness, and nursing concerns. This scoring system helps to prioritize candidates, ensuring that those who would benefit most from the pilgrimage are given priority. If any questions are unanswered or if the clinical situation is unclear, the committee may reach out to the providers, caregivers, or malade for clarification. This follow-up ensures that all information is accurate and complete, enabling a fair and informed selection process.

Potential candidates are assembled based on their overall score. The final number of malades and caregivers is determined by the Core Team, considering logistical and practical constraints. Once the final selection is made, the Malta Office, under Carla’s supervision, informs the sponsors and malades of the decision. Follow-up calls are made closer to the time of the pilgrimage to ensure that all preparations are in order.

In conclusion, the malade selection process for the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes is a meticulous and comprehensive procedure. It involves multiple stages of review, scoring, and follow-up to ensure that the most deserving candidates are selected and adequately prepared for the journey. The Order of Malta’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and thoroughness ensures a meaningful and healing experience for all participants.