By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Mar 31, 2025 / 11:03 am
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in France made an announcement on Monday regarding the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, which features art by the controversial artist Father Marko Rupnik. The entrances to the basilica are now being covered.
Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes described this decision as a “second step” following his initial choice in July 2024 to stop illuminating the mosaics at night and during processions.
“You know my opinion about the presence of these mosaics on the doors of the basilica. It seemed necessary to take a new symbolic step to make the entrance to the basilica more accessible to all who are unable to enter today,” Micas explained in an online post from the Marian apparition site.
The mosaics created by Rupnik, who is currently under investigation for alleged sexual abuse and awaiting trial by the Vatican, were added to the lower Lourdes basilica’s neo-Gothic facade in 2008.
The shrine covered the side doors of the basilica on March 31, with the central doors to be covered in the coming days. The coverings feature a yellow color with small crosses and the inscription “With Mary, Pilgrims of Hope 2025.”
In honor of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, Micas declared the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes as one of two locations in the diocese where pilgrims can receive a jubilee plenary indulgence.
Entering the basilica should be a symbolic moment, said a French bishop on the third Friday of Lent, March 28, also Memorial Day of Prayer for victims of sexual abuse in the Church of France.
In a bold move, Bishop Micas announced the decision to stop lighting up the mosaics at night during the nightly candlelight rosary processions at the shrine. While he expressed a personal desire to remove the art installations altogether, he emphasized that a final decision had not been made yet.
Looking ahead, Micas shared that the shrine’s commission will continue to address the Rupnik artwork with a calm and methodical approach, focusing on the long-term well-being of the victims, the Church, and the message of Lourdes.
Marlene Watkins, leader of the North American Lourdes Volunteers, praised the bishop’s thoughtful discernment in a post on the “Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality North American Volunteers” Facebook page. She highlighted the importance of prayer and support for the ongoing process.
The mosaics by Rupnik and his Centro Aletti in Rome depict the luminous mysteries of the rosary, with the Wedding Feast at Cana featured prominently. Rupnik’s signature red dot adorns one of the arched panels above the entrance.
Despite his artistic achievements, Rupnik’s reputation has been tarnished by allegations of abuse towards religious sisters, resulting in his removal from the Jesuits and a pending canonical trial. His prolific career has left many shrines and Catholic churches grappling with the presence of his artwork.
As the shrine in France navigates this challenging situation, Bishop Micas’ careful and deliberate approach seeks to honor the victims, the Church, and the sanctity of Lourdes. The journey continues with prayer, reflection, and a commitment to healing.
