In the Kaalheide district of Kerkrade-West there are two Lourdes grottos, namely one in the St. Joseph's Church from 1928 and one on the left exterior wall of the church. It is not common for two Lourdes grottos to be located so close to each other. The name Kaalheide refers to a former uncultivated heathland.
In 1932, an image of the Lourdes Grotto, with painted scenery, arrived in the church. A collection was held to fund the purchase of a Lourdes statue. This was initiated by Father Rector Fortunatus Delgeijer (1882-1955) OFM Conv (Ordo Fratrum Minorum Conventualium, Order of Friars Minor Conventual, also known as Black Franciscans). The scene changed in 1984 when a built Lourdes Grotto was constructed under the tower of the house of worship. Ex-votos, which are expressions of gratitude, have been placed at the Lourdes Grotto. A Lourdes banner hangs in the church, and many effigies can be seen. Quite a few candles are lit, especially during services. The church has limited opening hours and is, of course, also accessible during services. The church and Lourdes Grotto present a well-maintained appearance.
Since 1938, a Lourdes grotto made of artificial stone, specifically sprayed concrete, has stood next to the church. Its construction was made possible by financial support from the Willem-Sophia coal mine, located near Spekholzerheide in Kerkrade. This mine was operational from 1902 until 1970. The Willem-Sophia mine is named after King William III and his first wife, who was also his cousin, Sophie. William III (William Alexander Paul Frederick Louis, 1817-1890) was King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg from 1849 to 1890. His wife was Sophie (Sophie Friederike Mathilde) von Württemberg (1818-1877), Queen of the Netherlands and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg from 1849 to 1877.
The Lourdesgrotto features a small altar, a pulpit, and a statue of Mary, but lacks a statue of Bernadette. The statue of Mary is kept behind a grille to protect it from damage and theft. The grotto is enclosed by a fence. On 5 May 1938, the grotto was consecrated by Joannes Wilhelmus (Willem) van Ormelingen (1875-1954), parish priest-dean of Kerkrade (1926-1940). Since 2001, the grotto has been a national monument. In 2009, the Lourdesgrotto was renovated.
Address: Kapelweg 5, 6466AT Kerkrade/Kaalheide.
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