Bishop of Limerick leads pilgrimage for “a time when the world is crying out for peace”

THE Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy led Our Lady’s & Saint Ita’s ‘Jubilee Year of Hope’ pilgrimage.

The power of ‘hope’ in a world of challenge was emphasised as over 200 people joined the pilgrimage at Our Lady’s & Saint Ita’s Pastoral Units on Friday last.

Speaking about the success of the gathering, the Bishop said “the large numbers that turned out illustrated the hope that exists that, despite all the ills in the world today, that peace and goodwill can be commonplace for all, starting with small gestures.

“I was delighted with this initiative as it lifted our hearts in prayer for peace at a time when the world is crying out for peace. It was wonderful to be with people so conscious of the heritage that has come down to us through the generations.

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“It is so important to see ourselves as custodians of the flame of faith that has been handed on to us. It did me good to see the children and young people present. They will remember the event. Who knows, it might become an annual pilgrimage.”

In a hugely meaningful gathering under early evening mist, the pilgrims gathered for prayer, song as they walked to three main stations.

These started at the Kileedy graveyard, which has the St. Ita shrine, and here Helen Forde spoke about St. Ita herself and her great influence in her time.

They then moved onto the roadside near the Mass Rock, where James Shanahan spoke on significance of the Mass rock, while Marion Brosnan spoke in the Ashford church, the third and final station.

The unit comprises the parishes of Killeedy/Ashford, Dromcollogher/Broadford, Feenagh/Kilmeedy, Ardagh/Carrickerry, Mahoonagh/Feohanagh/Castlemahon, Monagea and Newcastle West.

Bishop Leahy also attended the 400th anniversary of the birth of St. Oliver Plunkett celebration held in Drogheda on July 6th.