Some people choose to make the trip to Lourdes as an independent pilgrim, in a small group, or through tour operators. However, many visitors come as part of a parish or school group at the time of the official pilgrimage of their Diocese (a geographical area of which a bishop is at the head). This usually take place over a period of around seven days. A typical week includes the celebration of the Mass each day, participation in the torchlight procession, which occurs in the evening, and in the Blessed Sacrement Procession in late afternoon. The week often includes a trip to the nearby Pyranees, participation in other religious practices such as the Stations of the Cross and personal prayer, social events, and free time to explore the town and spend money in the endless rows of suvenior shops. Young pilgrims usually take the responsibility to look after sick and disabled pilgrims during the event.
