The National Ploughing Championship 2023 will take place from 19-21 September in Ratheniska, Co Laois, Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin.
Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare and Leighlin will be present at this year’s championship at stand 326, where visitors will be asked to name their favourite saint. Bishop Nulty said, ‘I expect that people will name saints from all over the world, saints they pray to daily or in times of trouble, the saint whose name they chose at Confirmation or perhaps, the saint associated with their locality.’
Bishop Denis went on to say that that he thought it would be ‘fascinating to discover Ireland’s most loved saint. Ireland was once known as the isle of saints and scholars. the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin has links to many saints such as Conleth, Abban, Fiacc, Laserian, Columbanus, Willibrord and of course Brigid, but every county and indeed every country has its own saints. I look forward to seeing how many different saints will be nominated and which one will be the favourite.’
The quest to discover our favourite saint comes in the year when the country’s newest bank holiday, Saint Brigid’s Day, was first celebrated. Visitors to the stand will be invited to help re-create Saint Brigid’s Cloak and they will also see the traditional Saint Brigid’s crosses being made.
During previous Ploughing Championships, the diocese held competitions to find Ireland’s favourite poem, prayer, and hymn. This year, visitors to stand 326 will be asked to nominate their favourite saint and the favourite will be decided by a vote on day 3.
Since April, a year-long campaign has been underway to promote discussion in families, parishes, and schools encouraging vocations to the diocesan priesthood. Representatives from the National Office for Vocations will also be present at the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin to further promote and encourage this discussion.
Those who would like a few moments away from the hustle of the crowds can join a meditation session or a period of quiet reflection in a special Prayer Space, pin their intentions on the Prayer Wall or enjoy a cup of tea/coffee, a biscuit and a chat. There will also be live music with some well known singers and groups dropping in to share their talent.
ENDS
