National Novena will celebrate 50th anniversary of Knock Basilica

THOUSANDS of pilgrims are expected to gather at Knock Shrine from August 13 to 21 for the annual National Novena to Our Lady of Knock.

This year's Novena, themed 'Sheltered in God's Love', also marks the 50th anniversary of Knock Basilica, celebrating its enduring role as a place of prayer, hope and welcome for generations of pilgrims.

For nine days, the National Novena will offer a rich programme of liturgies, inspiring talks, workshops and prayer, inviting people of all ages to step away from the demands of daily life and rediscover the peace found in faith.

Since 1977, the National Novena has welcomed pilgrims from every corner of Ireland and from around the world, becoming one of the highlights of the pilgrimage season at Knock Shrine.

Daily ceremonies take place in Knock Basilica at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., featuring guest speakers whose personal stories and reflections explore faith in contemporary life. The Anointing of the Sick takes place each day at 2.30 p.m., while daily workshops at 12.45 p.m. provide opportunities for pilgrims to reflect more deeply on the Novena's themes. Each evening concludes with the traditional Candlelight Procession through the shrine grounds (weather permitting).

This year's guest speakers include broadcaster Mary Kennedy, Bishop Niall Coll, Bishop Kevin Doran, Dr. Sandra Cullen, David Wells, Deacon Mark Paine and Fr. Paul Murphy, alongside powerful personal testimonies from Aidan Gallagher of the Cenacolo Community, Niamh McCann of CJ's Rainbow and student Mario Nunis.

A special highlight is family day on Sunday, August 16, when families are invited to enjoy a day of celebration in the beautiful grounds of Knock Shrine. Beginning with a Blessing of Families at 11 a.m. in the Parish Church, the day features free activities including arts and crafts, games and interactive workshops.

The Novena concludes on August 21, the anniversary of the Apparition at Knock in 1879. Closing celebrations include the annual Witness Walk, retracing the footsteps of the original witnesses to the Apparition, followed by the final evening ceremony in Knock Basilica.

Fr. Richard Gibbons, Parish Priest and Rector of Knock Shrine, said: "Each year the National Novena offers people an opportunity to pause, pray and experience the peace that Knock has offered pilgrims for generations. This year's theme, 'Sheltered in God's Love,' reminds us that, whatever challenges we carry, God remains our refuge and our hope.

“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Knock Basilica, we look forward to welcoming pilgrims from every parish and every walk of life to share in these special nine days."

Throughout the Novena, pilgrims can also participate in themed guided prayer sessions and guided tours of Knock Shrine.

Full details of the programme, guest speakers and workshops are available at knockshrine.ie.