Bishop Joseph Duffy, Bishop of Clogher, has welcomed the increase in pilgrims visiting the Christian pilgrimage site of Lough Derg.Approximately 8,500 pilgrims will have participated in the three-day pilgrimage by this weekend, a 10% increase over 2008.
In addition to the traditional three-day pilgrimage, the Lough Derg season includes one-day retreats, family days, quiet days, workshops and special events.
Bishop Duffy said “the first televised Mass from Lough Derg was broadcast by RTÉ on 29 July last and it was a great success.
"I am delighted that in 2009 more people are allowing themselves the time to visit Lough Derg which is a special place of peace and personal challenge. The pilgrims’ experience exemplifies the healing and liberating work of the Church which we all agree is very much needed at the present time. As a pilgrimage, Lough Derg reminds us that we are all members of a community, searching for peace and reconciliation in our lives.”
“While people travel to Lough Derg for many reasons, I have heard that many decided to travel having seen the televised Mass last month. This positive development reflects a common theme in the World Communication Day messages of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, as he encourages the use of new media technologies to promote the gospel.”
The Prior of Lough Derg, Monsignor Richard Mohan, also welcomed the number of people coming on pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Patrick. He said, “Particularly significant are two groups of people: those who have returned after a long absence of 20 or 30 years and, secondly, those pilgrims who have come for the first time.
“‘First timers’ as they are affectionately known on the island, constitute approximately 18% of all pilgrims. Their presence gives us great hope for the future of both the Church and Lough Derg. I feel that people need a place apart where they can reflect on the busyness of their lives; to give themselves time and space.”
Prior Mohan continued, “Father Finbarr Tracey SVD, the director of the television production company Kairos Communications, approached me in early June to ask about the possibility of broadcasting Sunday Eucharist live from Lough Derg on RTÉ television. I readily agreed as I believe it is very important for a place like Lough Derg to reach out to as many people as possible and a live broadcast on national television provided us with the vehicle to do this.
“The liturgy here is always special: we have a team of young people who lead the music and the pilgrims always join in the singing. In fact the Psalm sung at the broadcast Mass was composed by Peter Manning who is our organist and only 16 years of age. I am delighted to be in a position to offer young people such an opportunity. We are indebted to Kairos Communications for the invitation and indeed for all the work put in by the team. Transporting the broadcasting equipment across to the island was no mean feat, and it gives a whole new meaning to the term ‘Outside Broadcasting’!” said Prior Mohan.
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