The 54th Annual Diocesan Summer Pilgrimage from the Diocese of Killaloe to the International Marian Shrine at Lourdes took place from 26th June to the 1st July. 500 Pilgrims from all parts of the Diocese departed from Shannon Airport under the leadership of Bishop Willie Walsh. Among the pilgrims were 60 sick and seriously ill people. “Lourdes is a place where those who are sick find a very special welcome. They are the focus of wonderful care and concern and many of our sick pilgrims find consolation and a spiritual peace in this sacred place,” said Fr. Tom Ryan (P.P. Shannon and Director of the Pilgrimage)
The huge number of pilgrims were accompanied by 15 priests of the Diocese along with 2 deacons who will be ordained as priests next year. The sick pilgrims were under the expert care of a medical team of 20 nurses headed up by Dr. Martin Fitzgerald from Tulla, Martin Daly from Feakle and Theresa Willis from Barefield. The chaplain to the sick pilgrims was Fr. Michael McLaughlin P.P. Kilmaley who this year celebrates 50 years of priesthood. An experienced team of brancardiers and helpers was led by Michael Mulanney from Dunkerrin Parish. A special feature of the pilgrimage is the youth section and this year 42 young people from parishes and secondary schools across the Diocese participated as helpers. “It is always a challenging but enjoyable experience for the young people who come on pilgrimage”, said Fr. Tom, “their participation almost always makes a significant impact on their lives and gives them a great appreciation for their gifts and blessing.”
During the five day trip the Killaloe pilgrims took centre stage among the huge international gathering on a number of occasions. They led the torchlight procession on Sunday evening and the Blessed Sacrament procession on Monday afternoon. Bishop Willie Walsh presided and preached at Mass in the apparition Grotto on Tuesday which was the feast of SS Peter & Paul. The pilgrims returned to Shannon Airport on Thursday.
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Bishop Elect Fr. Kieran O’Reilly will lead the Diocesan Autumn Pilgrimage to Lourdes from 27th September to 2nd October. Cost €660 per person sharing. Application forms are available from the Parish office or Sacristies.
087 234 9816
