Slump in numbers on Croagh Patrick pilgrimage

Thursday, 04 August 2011 13:18

Written by Stephen

croagh_patrick

 PILGRIM numbers on Croagh Patrick last Sunday were “significantly down” on previous years.

This raises the question as to whether the age old traditional pilgrimage is losing its allure in the modern age?

Both the Garda Siochana and Mayo Mountain Rescue noted the decrease in Sunday’s numbers.

“A noticeable dropoff,” was how a senior garda put it while a spokesman for Mayo Mountain Rescue reported the main pilgrim trail was “quieter than normal”.

There was also a signifciant decrease in the numbers injured while climbing. This is perhaps due to the lessened attednance.

The Archbishop of Tuam, Dr. Michael Neary, made the climb as usual and celebrated Mass on the summit.

On display on the mountaintop was the Eucharistic Congress Bell from 1932, which is being promoted as a symbol of church renewal ahead of next year's international congress in Ireland.

It was taken up the mountain by a group of young people on Friday morning.

Referring to the shocking Cloyne, Murphy and Ryan reports, Dr Neary said it was understandable that many faithful Catholics were experiencing distress and discouragement.

"We are very conscious of the enormous difficulties besetting our church, chiefly in the number of innocent people who have suffered through the wrong-doing of some priests," he said.

"Many are angered and appalled by what they have learned. Indeed, these feelings are shared by priests, religious and, yes, bishops too."

Mass was celebrated on the summit from 8 a.m. and every half-hour thereafter until the last Mass at 2 p.m.

The 10 a.m. Mass was celebrated in Irish and Archbishop Neary presided at the 10.30 a.m.

Pilgrims were able to avail of the Sacrament of Reconciliation on the summit from 7.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m.

The Tuam Diocesan Vocations Committee had a marquee at the foot of the mountain to promote vocations.