Thousands expected in Knock for special Holy Land Pilgrimage

Final preparations are underway for the annual Aid to the Church in Need pilgrimage, with thousands expected to descend on Knock Shrine to hear a special message of peace from the Holy Land.

Bishop William Shomali of Jerusalem has travelled from the holy city to Ireland’s national Eucharistic and Marian Shrine, and is appealing for Irish people to join him in praying for peace in the Holy Land on Saturday May 16.

Full details of the pilgrimage schedule are below:

Aid to the Church in Need, Ireland

 Annual Pilgrimage to Knock

Saturday May 16, 2026

(The morning programme will be held in the St John’s Rest and Care Centre.)

11.15         Opening Prayer and Welcome, Fr Timothy Bartlett, President of ACN Ireland

11.25         Welcome: Michael Kelly, ACN Ireland

11.35         One Million Children Pray the Rosary: Brandon Scott, ACN Ireland

11.45         Short film of the work of ACN Ireland

12.00         God weeps in the Holy Land: Bishop William Shomali

12.20         Questions and Answers

12.30         Free time for lunch

14.00         Outdoor Stations of the Cross and Rosary Procession

15.00         Mass at Knock Basilica celebrated by Bishop William Shomali with Anointing of the Sick