Last March, young people travelled from across Ireland, to participate in the National Pope John Paul II Award Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on the theme of ‘Peace’. The pilgrimage was led by Bishop Donal McKeown, Bishop of Derry and Award Patron. Young people from the dioceses of Armagh, Cloyne, Elphin, Derry, Dromore, Kildare & Leighlin, Limerick, Meath, Raphoe and Tuam took part in the pilgrimage along with school and parish leaders.
The young people in attendance took part in prayers, readings, dance performance and activities all with the message of encouragement to become involved in parish and grow in faith. The young pilgrims led and participated in the Stations of the Cross which reflected on the Way of the Cross from the perspective of Mary, mother of Jesus.
The pilgrimage focused on catechesis, explanation of ritual and prayers, the story of the Apparition, the structure and order of Mass and the Holy Eucharist.
When sked what they most enjoyed on the pilgrimage, young people said they particularly enjoyed walking the footsteps of Christ through Stations of the Cross and being able to participate in the Mass.
ENDS
