MESSAGE OF ARCHBISHOP DIARMUID MARTIN TO THE ARCHDIOCESAN “VIRTUAL PILGRIMAGE” TO KNOCK

The annual Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock has had to be replaced this year because of the current restrictions.  I wish to thank Deacon Gerard Reilly and his team and Father Richard Gibbons and the authorities at Knock Shrine for facilitating this simple “virtual pilgrimage”, so that we can all prayerfully present our intentions and those of our diocese to the Lord through the intercession of Our Lady of Knock.

Yesterday, Pope Francis published a Letter looking towards the Month of May, dedicated especially to Mary.  The message of that Letter applies also to our pilgrimage. The Pope writes: “contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial”.

We join with the Pope’s prayer for all who suffer because of the current pandemic.  He prayed to Mary: “Comfort those who are distraught and mourn their loved ones who have died, and at times are buried in a way that grieves them deeply. Be close to those who are concerned for their loved ones who are sick and who, in order to prevent the spread of the disease, cannot be close to them. Fill with hope those who are troubled by the uncertainty of the future and the consequences for the economy and employment”.

 Pray for the sick and those caring for them.  Pray for those who are lonely and anxious.  Pray for our diocesan community, our priests, deacons and religious.  Pray for parents. Pray that our young people will deepen their faith and renew their commitment in Christian charity.

Sunday April 26th, 2020