Applications open for VAKS – Volunteer at Knock Shrine

Be part of the VAKS team this summer at Knock Shrine

Why volunteer?

• VAKS welcome & assist pilgrims and visitors to Ireland’s International Eucharistic & Marian Shrine.
• Participate in pilgrimage ceremonies and assist with the Anointing of the Sick at Knock Basilica.
• Make new friends through team building, games, music and sports and daily prayerful reflections.

What commitment is required?

• All volunteers attend training on arrival at Knock Shrine.
• We ask that all VAKS commit to offering one weekend over the summer to volunteering at the Shrine.
• The cost of the programme is €30. This includes food and accommodation for the weekend and a t-shirt.

New for 2024!

Knock Youth Village

Nestled in mature grounds, close to Knock Shrine, the Youth Village offers high quality and comfortable accommodation with self-catering facilities. The pods are located in a secure environment, offering serenity and a deep connection with the environment.  This new space is exclusively reserved for our VAKS each weekend over the summer season. This will be your home away from home here at the Shrine and offers a fun place to meet and engage with your fellow VAKS and to unwind in the evening in your own dedicated space .

Each Pod offers ensuite accommodation for up to two people, with tea and coffee making facilities. Additionally, we are delighted to be able offer a DDA compliant Pod with full wheelchair access to facilitate Volunteers with disabilities.

The cost of accommodation at Knock Youth Village is included in the programme fee and all bed linen is supplied.

How to get involved

Apply here

To be a part of this amazing programme please download the application above and return to  the Youth Ministry team at Knock Shrine by post or email.

The Youth ministry team will contact you if your application has been successful.

Once an application is successful, you will receive a parental consent form along with a welcome letter giving further details of the training day, a ‘what to expect’ section, and the available weekends.  The letter will request the deposit of €10 to be returned on or before the training day.

You must be registered and trained to participate in the programme. Leaving Certificate students over the age of 18 will be required to complete a garda vetting form.