Thousands have travelled to Knock this weekend for the National Eucharistic Congress celebration at the Marian Shrine in Knock.
In addition to a Mass with an anointing of the sick, activities over the weekend also include a series of workshops hosted by organisers of next year’s International Eucharistic Congress (IEC).
The National Eucharistic Congress coincides this year with the celebration of the Knock Youth Festival, which has its own workshops and celebrations.
Primate of All Ireland Cardinal Seán Brady and Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin are among those leading pilgrims from the 26 dioceses on the island in a concelebrated Mass this afternoon.
The pilgrims include staff and volunteers of IEC2012. The Eucharistic Congress Bell, which began its journey around Ireland on St Patrick’s Day, has arrived in Knock and will be present during the national pilgrimage as a symbol of the invitation to faith and to the Eucharist.
Eucharistic Congress candles will be blessed, lit and returned to each of to the 26 diocesan cathedrals.
Welcoming pilgrims to the congress Dr Brady said: “The celebrations in Knock provide an opportunity to remind ourselves that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
"The Church events this weekend appeal to the spiritual needs of men and women of all ages and are in keeping with the theme of next year’s 50th International Eucharistic Congress which is: ‘The Eucharistic: Communion with Christ and with one another’."