Achonry Diocese pilgrimage to Lough Derg takes place in July
The Achonry Diocese threeday trip to Lough Derg takes place from Monday, July 17, to Wednesday, July 19. Details regarding the diocesan pilgrimage can be obtained from Fr John Maloney – 094 9367031 or jmaloney@achonrydiocese.org. The three- day pilgrimage to Lough Derg commences on Thursday, June 1, and runs each day till August 13.
Anyone wishing to attend can do so without a booking anyday within this time frame between the hours of 10.30 a. m. and 3 p. m.
Boats run regularly to the island between those times. The pilgrimage consists of three days of fasting, walking barefooted and maintaining a 24- hour vigil.
No phones or electronic equipment are allowed on the island. Fasting commences at midnight the night prior to arrival.
The admission fee is € 70. Concessions for students, seniors and groups available.
Lough Derg welcomes those from all religious practices and backgrounds. Lough Derg was founded by St Patrick in the fifth century and year after year thousands of pilgrims follow in the steps of their ancestors by visiting the Island for this special and unique pilgrimage, getting away from life as they know it, to take time out and reflect and more importantly plan a path forward in whatever challenges are affecting them, a family member or friend at that very specific time in their lives.
It is regular to meet Students sitting exams, people on the verge of getting married, people attending and offering their pilgrimage for someone ill in their lives.
On sitting and talking to people who attend year after year, fascinating stories can be heard of the reason for these peoples annual return to the Island, many times such return visits are simply in thanksgiving for some very special request, granted.
Ordinary, normal people of all walks in life, come together for these three days, some of strong religious belief and others not. The pilgrims support each other during this very testing pilgrimage; generating a very special bond prior to departing the island on the morning of the third day.
If you or someone belonging to you is facing a challenge in life of one description or another, please consider taking three days out of your life to experience something very unique and special. More details can be found at info@loughderg.org or by phoning Lough Derg – 071 9861518.