 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.
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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.   We are pleased to announce that Bus Éireann will operate Route 486 (offering a connection from Dublin) from Enniskillen to Lough Derg, one of the oldest places of pilgrimage in the Christian world during the Three Day Pilgrimage season in 2024. The 486 service will operate four days a week (Fri, Sat, Sun & Mon) from Friday, 31 May until Monday, 12 August 2024. DOWLOAD TIMETABLE From Dublin: take the 30 bus (Donegal Express). At times shown on the timetable below. Disembark the bus at Enniskillen and transfer to a shuttle bus, number 486. The 486 will bring you to Lough Derg at times shown in the timetable below. It is possible to book tickets in advance for the 30 bus to Enniskillen via buseireann.ie. The fare for the 486 service from Enniskillen to Lough Derg can be paid for in cash on the day, prices below.  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. 
From the Podcast Notes: Episode 39 is a conversation with Monsignor La Flynn, Prior of Lough Derg as Fender Jackson finds out about Saint Patrick attempting to separate the man from the myth. Conversation includes: introductions; Patrick’s origins; Patrick’s two texts; Patrick’s confession being an autobiography of sorts; the earliest full copies of the documents; Dabheog; placing Saint Patrick in historical time; the 1932 Eucharistic Congress in Dublin; the notion of Patrick converting the whole of Ireland; Patrick’s 2nd document; Patrick’s links of slavery; Christianity in Ireland pre Saint Patrick; the rife slave trade of Ireland in the early times; Patrick’s early mission; Patrick’s journey to being the national saint; the connections between Patrick and Cashel, Armagh, Downpatrick and Lough Derg; Saint Patrick’s purgatory; the connection between Lough Derg and Santiago de Compostela; the journeys made by 39 pilgrims who came to Lough between the late 12th Century and the 15th Century; Viscount Ramon de Perellós’ trip to Lough Derg and being hosted by Ó Néill; how Patrick passed away; the connection with the shamrock; the connection with Patrick and the snakes; the basilica of Lough Derg and other topics. A message from Father La, with best wishes for Saint Patrick's Day 2024.
 Celebrate Pilgrim Path Day at Lough Derg by joining us along the Lakeshore Pilgrim Path this Easter Monday 1st April 2024. Choose the option of a 12k or 8k walk guided by Fr La and our Lough Derg team members and learn something of the history of the ancient pilgrimage to St Patrick’s Purgatory, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the route. We also welcome all walking / rambler groups who wish to experience the Path. Free Event | Booking Required | Donations Welcome Email [email protected] or telephone +353 (0)71 986 1518 for booking info. Further dates for our Pilgrimage along the Pilgrim Path on Sunday 26th May or Sunday 1st September are available to book on our website here. 
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Lough Derg
Sanctuary of Saint Patrick Pettigo County Donegal F94 PC60 |
Phone: +353 (0) 71 9861518
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Email: [email protected]
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