Ireland: Archbishop Neary to lead annual Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage

Source: Irish Catholic Media Office

Archbishop Michael Neary of Tuam, accompanied by Bishop Fintan Monahan, Bishop of Killaloe, and Monsignor Gearóid Dullea, Executive Secretary of the Irish Catholic Bishops' Conference, will lead this year's Reek Sunday on 29 July, on Ireland's holy mountain, Croagh Patrick. The theme of this year's pilgrimage is the family, as part of preparations to World Meeting of Families 2018.

Croagh Patrick (2,510ft/765m), dominates the landscape of southwest Mayo both spiritually and physically. The pilgrimage is associated with Saint Patrick who, in 441, spent 40 days and nights fasting on the summit, following the example of Christ and Moses. The name 'Reek Sunday' comes from Patrick's ability to Christianise many pagan customs including the festival of Lughnasa, which previously had heralded the start of the harvest festival honouring the ancient pagan god Lugh, whose name is encompassed in the Irish word for August: Lughnasa. This festival's tradition became absorbed into the new Christian beliefs and locally become known as Domhnach na Cruaiche (Reek Sunday).

The bishops will start their ascent at 7am on Sunday morning.

On the evening before, Saturday (29 July) at 6.30pm, Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass in Saint Mary's Church, Westport, to mark the official beginning of this year's pilgrimage. During Reek Sunday, at the summit of Croagh Patrick, the frequency of Mass times will be different to that of previous years. Mass will be celebrated every hour, beginning at 8am, with the final Mass commencing at 2pm. Bishop Monahan will celebrate Mass as Gaeilge at 10am. Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass at 11am. Pilgrims may also receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the summit from 7.30am to 2pm.

Croagh Patrick is a physically demanding pilgrimage. Intending pilgrims should make themselves aware in advance of health and safety information about the mountain. Pilgrims should also heed the instructions of stewards, the mountain rescue teams, Order of Malta, and Gardaí. While it is a custom for some to make the climb barefoot, pilgrims should come prepared for changeable weather conditions, and are advised to bring suitable warm/waterproof clothing, good footwear, walking stick/staff and water, and to be mindful of the safety of themselves and others.

See www.mountaineering.ie and www.mayomountainrescue.ie/index.php/advice/safety-and-equipment

A virtual tour and additional information on Croagh Patrick can be viewed on www.tuamarchdiocese.org and on www.westportparish.ie.