We are delighted to share the programme for the National Novena with details of guest speakers who will join us for daily ceremonies throughout our 9-day Novena to Our Lady of Knock.
Our theme for this year is ‘A Journey in Hope’, as we look toward the Synod and reflect on the transformative power of hope and resilience in times of adversity.
This theme of hope leads us towards thinking and reflecting more deeply on the Synod and the fundamental questions that remain at the heart of our continual discourse. We look to the future with the hope of renewal, for God’s guidance and pray that this Novena will offer you, our pilgrims and friends the chance for thought-provoking reflection and discussion.
A unique feature of this year’s Novena will be the ‘Synod Tent’, where members of the public will be invited to learn more about the Synod and what it means for all of us. It will also provide an opportunity for us to listen to what you think Knock Shrine has to offer you and the Church in Ireland at this critical juncture in our history.
Daily sessions will take place in the Synod Tent at 12 noon with a facilitator present each day to provide structure and facilitate questions and group discussion.
Novena Ceremonies will take place at 3pm and 8pm in the Basilica.
Find out more about each of our Guest Speakers & Homilists here.
3pm Most Rev Tom Deenihan, Bishop of Meath
What is Christian Hope?
8pm Cormac Henry, former Youth Volunteer at Knock Shrine
What Gives me Hope Today?
3pm & 8pm Roseanna Ruane, mother of Saoírse Ruane
The Power of Prayer in Difficult Times
3pm & 8pm Dr Nicola Brady, Chair of the Synodal Steering Group
The Synodal Pathway: What have we learned and what will we do?
3pm & 8pm Fr Terence Harrington OFM Cap, St Francis of Assisi Parish in Priorswood, Dublin
How Can I Have Hope in my Brokenness?
3pm & 8pm Halyna Teslyuk, Associate Professor of Old Testament, Ukrainian Catholic University, Lviv
A Hope that Inspires
Knock Shrine will mark this day as a special day of prayer for peace in Ukraine. We are inviting people from the Ukrainian community in Ireland and host families to join us.
Нок Шрайн (Церква села Нок) відзначатиме цей день як особливий день молитви за мир в Україні. Ми запрошуємо людей з української громади в Ірландії та ірландські родини, що прийняли їх до своїх осель, приєднатися до нас.
3pm & 8pm Lauren Conroy, Student
My Faith Story
3pm Fr Michael McKeever, Diocesan Secretary, Diocese of Raphoe
Eucharist: a Sign of Hope
8pm Professor John Feehan, Geologist, Botanist, Author and Broadcaster
God in Everything that Lives: A Reflection on Laudato Si
3pm Most Rev Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin
They will take their place at the Feast
8pm Fr Richard Gibbons, PP and Rector, Knock Shrine
Knock – the Vision of Hope
The 21st August is Family Day at Knock Shrine, taking place from 11am-3pm in the beautiful grounds of the Shrine. See further details below.
3pm & 8pm Most Rev Francis Duffy, Archbishop of Tuam
The Call of the Lord
Our Family Day is a lovely opportunity for families to get together to enjoy a range of fun activities.
All events and activities are free of charge and take place on the beautiful grounds of Knock Shrine, close to the award-winning Knock Museum and cafe.
There will be outdoor activities taking place on the green (weather permitting) and marquees with indoor workshops, games and more.
Don’t miss this special day of memory making and fun for everyone to enjoy.