Thousands of people, many disabled or ailing, were evacuated today from the shrine at Lourdes in southern France after a bomb threat on the Catholic holy day of Assumption.

AN INTERNATIONAL doctors’ panel appointed by the Catholic Church says it is getting out of the “miracle” business at Lourdes.

THREE Limerick priests have been honoured for their work with pilgrims to Lourdes.

POPE John Paul II, looking healthier than during his weekend pilgrimage to Lourdes and speaking with a clear voice, thanked God yesterday for giving him the strength to visit the French shrine.

The pope’s visit to the shrine at Lourdes last weekend has left the local Roman Catholic Church deep in debt