- 10.00am photocall: young adults and bishops at new state-of-the-art Knock Youth Village
You, or a representative, are invited to a major young adult faith gathering ‘Dare to Hope’ that will involve discussion, reflection, prayer and workshops, and include the launch of the new state-of-the-art €1.5 million of Knock Youth Village complex. Details:
Time and date: from 9.30am tomorrow, Saturday, 14 June 2025
Venue: the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine at Knock, Claremorris, Co Mayo, F12 Y226
In attendance: young adults from across the 32 counties, Archbishop Francis Duffy of Tuam Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork & Ross, bishops and priests
Media arrangements: journalists wishing to attend are asked to register with the Catholic Communications Office in advance via [email protected].
Looking forward to the young adult faith gathering in Knock, Bishop Fintan Gavin said, “In a world where young people are searching for purpose and belonging, this gathering offers a space to encounter Christ, explore faith, and find hope together in community. All are welcome.”
CCO’s Martin Long, Crysta Gunn and Chah Garde will be available in the main reception of Knock Youth Village from 9.30am to brief journalists. Sean Flynn of Commercial Photography Solutions will be the official photographer on the day. Photographs from the event for publication purposes will be available to media by contacting Mr Flynn on [email protected] or on 085 1368037
‘Dare to Hope’ faith gathering and new Knock Youth Village
The event will feature a keynote address by Father Conor McDonough OP, a Dominican priest and theology lecturer, renowned for his engaging and accessible teaching style. Father McDonough’s address will also be live-streamed on the Catholic Bishops’ Facebook page from 11.00am.
The faith gathering will take place in the Knock Youth Village Retreat accommodation, a new state-of-the-art retreat facility at the National Marian Shrine which will be officially launched by Archbishop Francis Duffy, Archbishop of Tuam, during the gathering. The launch of Knock Youth Village marks a milestone in the development of Knock Shrine. This impressive €1.5 million complex is comprised of eco-friendly, self-catering accommodation which has been designed with comfort and sustainability in mind. The modern architecture of the pods blends with the natural woodland surroundings. The pods feature smart technology, high spec finishes, full ensuite facilities, twin bedded accommodation, controllable ventilation and under-floor heating. The dedicated central hub offers a cheerful open-plan bright space for residents, with fully equipped kitchen and additional accommodation for retreat leaders.
The gathering will feature expert speakers, faith sharing experiences, and a concluding with a Mass in Our Lady of Knock Basilica, celebrated by Bishop Gavin in his role as chair of the Council for Pastoral Renewal and Adult Faith Development of the Irish Bishops’ Conference.
For more information on registration for ‘Dare to Hope’ see www.catholicbishops.ie, and note below Catholic Communications Office contact details to organise an interview.
ENDS