The first live broadcast of Mass from Lough Derg will be aired on television this Sunday, it was revealed today.
The Co Donegal island in the Diocese of Clogher is regarded as a sacred tranquil place and one of the oldest centres of pilgrimage in western Europe.
Thousands of Christians flock to it every year to carry out three-day pilgrimages, where they traditionally fast, walk barefoot and keep continuously awake for 24 hours.
Joseph Duffy, Bishop of Clogher, said the televised service on RTE will allow people to share in the spirituality of pilgrims.
"The hosting of this special broadcast is consistent with the World Communication Day messages of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, who has encouraged the use of new media technologies to promote the gospel," Bishop Duffy said.
Lough Derg is four miles north of the village of Pettigo in Co Donegal.
PA