​Bishop Mwongela returns to Lough Derg for a visit along with Fr Jeremiah who worked here last season. Bishop Joseph himself made the 3 day pilgrimage and also worked on the Lough Derg team as a priest over several summers while he was studying in Rome. He values the warm links between the dioceses of Clogher and Kitui that began in the 1980s when Clogher priests volunteered in the young Diocese of Kitui, including Fr La (1994-98) and Bishop Larry Duffy (1998-2002). In recent years, priests from Kitui have been coming to assist in Clogher. Fr Jeremiah is currently ministering in Bundoran, and Fr Patrick is spending the summer on the Team at Lough Derg.

A message from Fr. La for all those beginning their Junior  & Leaving Cert examinations today.

For the opening weekend of the Three Day Pilgrimage, Deacon Martin Donnelly, a member of the Clergy Team offers some words of reflection.​

Groups of people huddled on the shore
shivering in a breeze
that is reminiscent of autumn rather than summer
as we await our cruise.

We gaze across the lake
at the ancient sanctuary of Patrick
looking somewhat brighter and lighter grey
than it has ever looked even in weak sunlight.

What brings us here?
It is not the weather
and certainly not dreams of luxury.
It is our desire to break from the routine
and busyness of our world
and draw ourselves close to the triune God.

As we take our first barefoot steps on the island
we feel we are on Holy ground
and our pilgrimage has begun.
The stones are still as testing for our feet
and if the rain does not soak us
then the midges will certainly tease us.

Thoughts of a sleepless night ahead
and pretending that toast and oat cakes
are a sumptuous evening meal add to the chill.

There are so many things I want to say to God
but I don't know where to start.
So I kneel before the tabernacle in the Basilica
and open my heart to the Lord.

He knows me better than I know myself.
I allow him to see me as I am
in my human frailty
and pray for the freedom
to accept the plan He has for me.

Bless my pilgrimage.

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It's that time of year when people begin asking , "Why go to Lough Derg?"

Embarking on a journey to Lough Derg can be a transformative experience for those seeking spiritual growth, inner peace, and a deeper connection to their faith. 

While there are numerous answers to the question, many  reflect the personal  experience of previous pilgrims, throughout the 2023 pilgrimage season we asked pilgrims on Station Island why they had come.  Here are the 'Top 5' compelling reasons why people should consider visiting this ancient place of Christian pilgrimage. 

1. **Spiritual Renewal:** Lough Derg provides a sacred space where individuals can step away from the distractions of everyday life and focus on their spiritual well-being. The peaceful surroundings and centuries-old traditions create an atmosphere conducive to reflection, prayer, and personal growth.
 
2. **Historical Significance:** As one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Europe, Lough Derg carries a rich history and spiritual heritage. Visiting this ancient place allows individuals to connect with centuries of tradition and faith, adding a profound layer of meaning to their own spiritual journey.
 
3. **Sense of Community:** Pilgrims told us that at Lough Derg they often find a sense of camaraderie and support among fellow pilgrims. The shared experience of prayer, fasting, and reflection creates a strong bond, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
 
4. **Personal Challenge:** Time at Lough Derg, whether  the traditional three-day format or the One Day Retreats, present a personal challenge that can lead to spiritual growth and self-discovery. Pushing one's physical and mental boundaries in pursuit of a deeper connection with God can be a powerful and transformative experience.
 
5. **Peace and Tranquility:** The serene beauty of Lough Derg, with its tranquil lake and lush surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat from the noise and busyness of modern life. The opportunity to spend time in nature, away from distractions, can help individuals find inner peace and clarity.
 
Overall, a visit to Lough Derg can be a profound and meaningful experience for those seeking spiritual enrichment, personal growth, and a deeper connection to their faith. It's a place where the ancient and the contemporary meet, creating a unique opportunity for individuals to pause, reflect, and nourish their souls in a sacred setting.

In July 2023, we hosted a television crew from Germany for three days.

They were filming an episode for a long-running documentary series Echtes Leben (Real Life), following two German pilgrims as they undertook the Three Day Pilgrimage.

We are pleased to share the finished piece,   Pilgern auf die harte Tour – barfuß in Irland, that translates as   "Pilgrimage the hard way - barefoot in Ireland" that was recently broadcast across Germany. 

VIEW THE DOCUMENTARY HERE

Even if you don’t have any knowledge of German, there is some beautiful imagery of Station Island and the prayers and movements of the Three Day Pilgrimage. Our thanks to Agata, Regina, Susanne, the crew, and all those involved in this documentary, for sharing the mission and ministry of Lough Derg. ​

Over 500 young people have joined us so far this year for a Confirmation Retreat Day, and about 700 more will join us on Station Island after the Easter holidays! Please keep all these young people in your prayers.

Thanks to Our Lady's Primary School, Tullysaran  who have created a wonderful highlight video of their time with us. You can watch it on their website here.