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Imagine a place where nothing matters...
No social media. No phone, no communication with the world as you know it. Stripped of all that, you begin to pray, sacrifice food, sleep and comfort while doing so something shifts, you become more pure and authentic, you start to share stories with complete strangers, share your thoughts and feelings, and most importantly begin to have lots of fun conversations all while developing your spiritual health. I have had a wonderful experience with what I believe to be the holy spirit, it was amazing, I had no hunger, no sleep desire, just pure peace and tranquility There is no place on earth that will give you the unique experience of the 3 day pilgrimage in Lough Derg, personally it's a glimpse of heaven, if you can look beyond the sleep, food and physical demand. JME 01.06.2023 My family's link to Lough Derg goes back many decades. My mother worked on the island in the late 1950s-early 1960s before she married my father. When we were children we were fascinated by the stories she told us about Lough Derg. I personally couldn't wait to go there and so I was delighted to go there for the first time when I turned 14. I went there to pray for my upcoming exams.
It soon became the norm for me to go to Lough Derg every Summer with my mother and/or sisters. I love the peace on Lough Derg. I love to be given the chance to switch off from the outside world. I feel such a connection with Lough Derg. I feel completely at peace there. There's no other place like it on earth. I hope to return to Lough Derg again this year to do the three day pilgrimage as I have missed doing it the past two summers as I had bowel cancer. I did manage to do the day retreats instead. I can't imagine not ever being able to visit Lough Derg at least once a year. It helps me feel fulfilled. If you have never been to Lough Derg, do yourself a favour and go. You won't regret it! B McQuaid Lough Derg is the one place where I can fully switch off and allow God to talk to me without me being distracted by all the demands of daily living. I first went on the 3 day pilgrimage when I was in my late teens and went for the next 3 years. Life took over and I didn't return for the 3 day pilgrimage until 2022 - a gap of 35 years. I couldn't believe the changes in the facilities, but the core pilgrimage and the peace it brought was still there. I have continued to return over the last few years. I would encourage anyone to try and go to the island even for the 1 day retreat just to get a taste of what the island is like and to enjoy the feeling of being totally away. The sense of peace I come away with is wonderful.
Marie O'Neill, Ireland Visited July 2024 I went to Lough Derg on many occasions, but I feel that the one time I worked on the Island as a Priest was amazing. Of the many experiences I had was chatting to the people in the wet room. I heard amazing stories from amazing people. Some were struggling with life in health, mind and body. All had a common desire to be away from their world and be present to their God. For me I was given hope from the pilgrims. This is church, this is faith, this is Lough Derg.
Martin Gilcreest, Ireland Visited August 2024 Walking the Pilgrim Path around the shore of Lough Derg was an enchanting experience that deeply resonated with me. The serene landscapes, with their stunning views and tranquil waters, provided the perfect backdrop for reflection and contemplation. Each step along the path allowed me to connect not only with the beauty of nature but also with my own thoughts and feelings. The journey was both calming and inspiring, offering moments of solitude and clarity. As I walked, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and an inner peace that lingered long after I left the shores of Lough Derg.
LL, Galway Visited October 2024 From the moment I arrived, I felt a deep sense of peace enveloping me. The rugged beauty of the island, combined with moments of reflection and prayer, allowed me to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life. The communal experience of walking alongside fellow pilgrims fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose. Each step became a meditation, leading me to a deeper understanding of myself and my faith. This pilgrimage was not just a physical challenge, but a transformative spiritual experience that I will carry with me always.
LR, England Visited in June 2024 The crisp air bit at my cheeks, a stark contrast to the nervous flutter in my stomach. Just a week before my wedding, I stood on the shores of Lough Derg, ready to embark on the pilgrimage. Doubt gnawed at me – was this the right way to spend the days leading up to my big day? Then the first step onto Station Island was taken, and the doubts began to fade. The three days were demanding, physically and spiritually. The lack of sleep, the constant chanting, and the unwavering focus on prayer stripped away the anxieties I’d been carrying. It wasn't just the stunning beauty of the lake, it was the shared experience, the quiet strength of the other pilgrims, and the sense of profound peace that descended as I confronted myself and my fears. By the time I left Lough Derg, the pre-wedding jitters were replaced with a calm certainty, a deep inner peace I carried into my marriage. The pilgrimage wasn't just a spiritual journey; it was the perfect preparation for the commitment I was about to make. It grounded me, strengthened me, and ultimately, made me a better bride.
CS, Fermanagh Visited June 2018 A challenging but deeply rewarding spiritual journey offering profound reflection and a unique connection to God and my faith.
John, County Dublin |
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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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