May 2025 @ Lough Derg

The month of May, with the summer fast approaching, is a time of renewal and reflection, making it an ideal time to embark on a pilgrimage journey to  Lough Derg. This renowned and historic place of Christian pilgrimage, Lough Derg invites you to immerse yourself in a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. Here’s what you can experience this month:

Traditional Three-Day Pilgrimage    (Beginning Friday May 30th)
A powerful spiritual journey, our traditional three-day pilgrimage welcomes thousands each year. Take a time away from the rigours and routine of daily life, and engage in a meaningful ritual of prayer, fasting, and contemplation, following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims throughout the centuries.  More information HERE.
*The Three Day Pilgrimage continues until  August 15th - Wednesday 13th August is the last day to begin the Three Day Pilgrimage for the Jubilee Year 2025

One Day Retreats (Sun 4th,   Mon 5th,   Sun 11th,   Tue 13th,   Sat 17th,   Sat 24th,   Mon 26th)
Before the beginning of the Three Day Pilgrimage, for those seeking a shorter, reflective escape, our day retreats offer a chance to unwind and find peace in quiet contemplation. Join us for guided reflections, prayer, Eucharistic Adoration, the celebration of Mass  -  an opportunity for some 'time out'  in  tranquil surroundings. More information and booking details HERE.

****Special One Day Retreats this May
On Sunday  4th, the first One Day Retreat of the 2025 Pilgrimage Season, we will be joined by the Papal Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Luis Montemayor, and Bishop of Clogher Larry Duffy.

Saturday 17th will see us joined by the  Divine Mercy Sisters    who will  speak about the devotion  and lead the Chaplet of Divine Mercy in Saint Patrick's Basilica.

On Monday 26th a relic of Saint Peregrine (Patron Saint for persons suffering from cancer) will be present on Station Island. A blessing with the relic with be available to pilgrims.

Quiet Day (Saturday 10th)
A Quiet Day on Lough Derg is a self-directed day in the peaceful Island setting. It is a day where you and fellow pilgrims have the Island to yourself. Pilgrims often bring with them their own reflective reading others just simply like to walk the island in silent prayer, spend time in Saint Patrick’s Basilica or Saint Mary’s Chapel and soak in the atmosphere of centuries of pilgrim prayer. More information and  booking details HERE.

Residential Retreat (Fri 16th - Mon 19th)
The first residential retreat for this year - "Called" - is particularly offered for young adults 18-35 years).   Franciscan Brothers, Jacopo & Ronan will help retreatants explore themes such as faith, love of true self, and the experience of life's challenges.  Reduced rates  (thanks to sponsorship and donations) are available , contact Marcas for more details.

A second residential retreat,   "Hope in the Wilderness" with Eoin Madigan  will take place from Thursday 10th to Sunday 13th July. More information available HERE.

Day of Friendship & Prayer    (Wednesday 21st)
Our Day of Friendship & Prayer is a gathering where pilgrims and friends from different Christian churches come together for a day of reflection, prayer, and fellowship. This ecumenical event emphasises unity and strengthens relationships within the Christian community.   It's a time to deepen spiritual connections and build bridges between denominations.   This year we look forward to welcoming Harold Good as our guest speaker. Harold Good O.B.E. is an Irish Methodist who, in 2005, played a vital role in the Northern Ireland peace process.   To book your place for this special day, click HERE.

Jubilee 2025 Pilgrim Passport    (throughout  this pilgrimage season)
This special year, declared by Pope Francis as a time of great celebration and spiritual renewal, presents the perfect opportunity for Lough Derg to join forces with Ireland's other two major pilgrimage sites nominated by the Irish Bishops as destinations for pilgrims during the Jubilee Year 2025. The 'Pilgrim Passport' is a bespoke booklet that encourages visitors to embark and reflect on a spiritual journey across Ireland, exploring the country's rich heritage and deep-rooted faith. 
 
"We are delighted to partner with our friends at Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick to bring this unique initiative to life," said Monsignor La Flynn, Prior of Lough Derg. "The Pilgrim Passport invites individuals to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with their spiritual roots amidst the beauty and tranquillity of Ireland's sacred landscapes."
 
As part of the project, pilgrims visiting each of the three sites can receive a stamp in their passport, serving as a poignant reminder of their journey. At Lough Derg, the annual schedule of One Day Retreats, the Three Day Pilgrimage, and other opportunities for pilgrimage will take place through Jubilee Year 2025, tying into the theme of the Jubilee, “Pilgrims of Hope”. 

Find out more about the Pilgrim Passport by visiting the dedicated website www.pilgrimpassport.ie

Lough Derg is a beacon of peace and spiritual solace, offering a unique opportunity to step away from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with  God and with self. For more information on these events or to plan your visit, please contact our office at [email protected] or explore more of our website.

We look forward to welcoming you to the tranquil and sacred shores of Lough Derg.

Blessings,

Fr. La and the Lough Derg Team