The Ted McCormack Group

(HCPT  Group 543)

HCPT - The Pilgrimage Trust was formed in 1956 after a young doctor, Michael Strode, first took four children with disabilities on a Pilgrimage holiday to Lourdes and at the same time revolutionised the way children with disabilities could experience a trip to this famous international shrine in the foothills of the
French Pyrenees.

Fifty years later, HCPT takes almost 2000 children from the UK, Ireland and increasingly from other countries, including Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, the West Indies and the United States of America.

From the Easter pilgrimages grew the Hosanna House project, which was the response to a request from young adults for an opportunity to experience a similar holiday to that of the children. Today, Hosanna House, the Trust's residential centre just outside Lourdes in Bartres, takes nearly 2,000
pilgrims in groups of 40 to 50, many of whom have disabilities or special needs.

More recently a smaller property, The Villa, was purchased by the trust for smaller groups of up to 18. It is situated in the most beautiful countryside only about half a mile from Hosanna House. The Villa offers self catering accommodation and extends the work of the trust to a wider range of pilgrims.

Each Group has its own Leader, Chaplain and Nurse who prepare the week's programme. Pilgrims are invited to participate in the Lourdes activities, including visits to the Grotto and the memorable Blessed Sacrament and Torchlight Processions. Often, day-excursions to the Pyrenees and other places of interest are included.

Hosanna House has a purpose built coach with wheelchair lift and special minibuses, so getting around is easy.

As well as planned activities there is plenty of time for rest and relaxation in a friendly atmosphere.

Flights depart each week from the UK from April to October.

In the picturesque surroundings of the Pyrenees, the programme is designed to make the most of the spiritual opportunity of Lourdes and each Group enjoys the family atmosphere of the House.

Hosanna House is well equipped for pilgrims with special needs. All meals are provided. The House has two wings called Notre Dame and St Bernadette. Each wing has a lounge and a dining room, a lift and easy wheelchair access throughout. Accommodation consists mainly of twin bedrooms (some with up to
four beds). Each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, some with special facilities such as wheel-in showers or walk-around baths with handrails.

HCPT The Pilgrimage Trust

Oakfield Park 32 Bilton Road, Rugby Warwickshire CV22 7HQ

Charity Registration No 281074