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A perfect time to visit Knock Shrine  If
you’re planning on spending time in Co. Mayo over Christmas what
better place to visit then the famous Knock Shrine?
Although outside the main pilgrimage period Ireland’s National Marian
Shrine is open all-year round.
The Story of Knock began on August 21, 1879 when Our Lady, St. Joseph
and St. John the Evangelist appeared at the south gable of Knock Parish
Church.
The apparition was witnessed by 15 people both young and old.
From this miraculous occurrence Knock has grown to the status of an internationally-recognised
Marian Shrine.
The personal pilgrimage of Pope John Paul II in 1979 commemorating the
centenary of the apparition inspired an even greater devotion to the Shrine
and endorsed the indelible seal of Vatican approval.
Mother Teresa of Calcutta visited the Shrine in June of 1993.
Now some 1.5million pilgrims from all over the world visit the Shrine
annually.
A guide for both the individual or a group called Knock Pilgrims Guide
is available from all the Shrine offices.
Also on site is Knock Folk Museum. The facility was established to encourage
understanding and appreciation of Knock Shrine through the display of
original objects. The museum documents the story of the Knock Apparition
of 1879 and places it in the context of life at that time.
Permanent displays range from religious to fishing, farming, crafts, education,
housing, clothing and transport.
The development of Knock Shrine and the life and times of the late Msgr.
James Horan — the man behind the local airport — are given
a special place.
Now named Ireland West Airport Knock scheduled air services run from Dublin,
London, Manchester and other airports.
Knock can also be reached by train. Services run from Dublin to Claremorris
(6 miles from Knock) and there are bus services from all major towns and
cities.
By road Knock is 140 miles from Dublin and 45 miles from Galway.
It is located on the N17 road mid-way between Galway and Sligo. |
