Pope Francis (Photo from Vatican News Facebook page).

Pope Francis looks set to visit Knock

A VISIT by Pope Francis to the Marian Shrine in Knock is looking very likely.

While no official confirmation has been received, The Connaught Telegraph has learned from reliable sources that the Pontiff will touch down in Mayo for a brief visit.

A public event is in the pipeline, with negotiations ongoing.

Pope Francis will visit Ireland for two days, August 25 and 26, on the first papal trip to Ireland in nearly 40 years when he attends the World Meeting of Families in Dublin.

When Pope John Paul II visited in 1979 he declared that Knock was the goal of his visit to Ireland. However, his stage at the shrine was cut short by the fact he was delayed at the young people's pilgrimage in Galway.