Well Mass draws huge crowd

THE Annual Mass on the slopes of Mushera Mountain took place at St. John’s Well celebrated by Canon John Fitzgerald assisted by Fr. James McSweeney and Fr. Con Kiely.

The occasion was marked by the presence of the Millstreet Parish Choir and Millstreet Pipe Band.

Crowds from across Duhallow, Muskerry and further afield convened at the picturesque location that salutes the popular feast day of St. John’s Day and mid summer. The annual staging has become tradition with patrons from the adjoining parishes from Kerry, North and Mid Cork in attendance.

Those present viewed the ongoing work undertaken by both Coillte and the St John’s Well Committee over recent years, the huge project allows patrons a wonderful panoramic view of the Duhallow barony.

The Well is situated in a quite and peaceful location for prayer and reflection in addition to being a focal point for visitors thanks to its setting. St. John’s Well is readily accessible for the public-its updating beginning in the 1950’s on the placing of a picture of St. John at the Grotto.

The first Mass was celebrated on Mid Summers Day Day in 1974 and eight years later, the Stations of the Cross were officially blessed. Similar to other Holy Wells, St. John’s holds a tradition and reputation for curing ailments.

Following the Mass, many moved on to the nearby platform stage for dancing into darkness to celebrate one of the great days of Irish summer.