Bishop Deenihan to speak at Knock

The Bishop of Meath, Most Rev Tom Deenihan is to be the keynote speaker at the revived National Novena to Our Lady of Knock this Sunday, August 14.

The week-long Novena is returning this year to its traditional format for the first time since 2019. It runs from this Sunday until Monday August 22.

Bishop Deenihan is to speak on the theme What is Christian Hope? His speech begins at 3pm.

In excess of 8,000 pilgrims are expected to attend each day at the Shrine. As in years gone by, over the course of the novena the pilgrimage will offer nine days of reflection, prayer and a chance to reconnect with one’s faith in the unique and sacred space of Knock Shrine.

Following a three-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Knock parish priest and Rector of Knock Shrine, Father Richard Gibbons said that, “as we gather together to give thanks at our beautiful Marian Shrine, I hope to make this year extra special for all those pilgrims who will be travelling to the Shrine to take part in the annual novena.”

On each of the nine days, ceremonies will take place at Knock Basilica beginning with concelebrated Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm, followed by contributions from guest speakers. There will also be the special candlelight procession, a traditional feature of the Novena at Knock, which takes place following the 8.00pm ceremony (weather permitting).