operations team

Pilgrimage Director

Paul Affleck, our operations director since 2009, is a veteran of many pilgrimages to Lourdes, Fatima, the Holy Land and Rome. He is also a member of the Hospitality of Our Lady of Lourdes, a lay organisation whose members volunteer to work for the Sanctuary of Lourdes. His role is to agree the pilgrimage programme and to reserve venues in Lourdes for our liturgies. He liaises with our Tour Operator, Tangney Tours, to secure flights and to book accommodation in Lourdes. He represents Raphael in the Association of British Lourdes Pilgrimage Directors ensuring our voice is heard in Lourdes.

Chief Hand​maid

Rachel Booth is our Chief Handmaid and amongst her myriad responsibilities on the pilgrimage, Rachel ensures that the accommodation and dining arrangements are all taken care of for our sick pilgrims. She works closely with the hotel staff and our nursing team to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Lourdes.

Chief Brancardier

Trevor McKean

Chief Nurses

Angela Searle and Catherine Beadle

Treasurer

Chris Woodward