8th Annual Pilgrimage at Knock – “A wonderful occasion had by all”


“A wonderful occasion had by all”.

It was a great day to remember full of Graces and Blessings for everyone.  Over 12000 Grandparents and Families attended the 8th National Grandparents pilgrimage in Knock last weekend.  On Sunday, September 14, feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, over 12,000 people attended the annual Grandparents Pilgrimage, in what has now become the biggest pilgrimage in Ireland. This was the eighth year for this growing gathering to attend the day of celebration at Ireland’s national shrine.

The day consisted of Healing of the Sick at 2.30 with the administration of the Sacrament, followed by a magnificent display of banners in the procession which included representatives from branches of the Catholic Grandparents Association from Ireland, UK and other parts of the world,

Holy Mass was concelebrated at 3pm, with bishops and priests from Ireland and abroad, chief celebrant being the papal nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Charles Brown. In his homily he acknowledged and affirmed all grandparents in their great vocation to hand on the Faith to grandchildren at this time.  A reflection was given by Catherine Wiley, founder of the CGA. Her message to grandparents –“If you wish to pass on the Faith, you need to “teach your Grandchildren to pray!”. Fr Liam Lawton was guest soloist at the Mass, with St. Joseph’s School Choir from Castlebar, conductor Deirdre Lee and musical director, Una Nolan. A great day to remember, Grandparents left feeling empowered and encouraged and invigorated for their challenge.

The Catholic Grandparents Association will give witness and testimony to our Holy Father, Pope Francis at the first pilgrimage for Families and Grandparents in St. Peter’s Square on September 28th. Grandparents everywhere are invited to attend www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org catholicgrandparents@gmail.com or tel – 098 24877