The Marian Apparition at Knock Shrine
21st August, 1879
147 years ago tonight, something happened in the quiet village of Knock, County Mayo, that would change not only the lives of the local village, but of millions of Irish and Catholics around the world.
At the Gable Wall of the Parish Church, Mary, Our Lady, appeared in an Apparition, alongside St. Joseph, St. John the Evangelist, and the Lamb of Good, standing on an altar, in front of a cross, surrounded by angels.
Since then, millions of pilgrims, including myself and my family, have visited Knock. These include Pope John Paul II, Mother Teresa, Pope Francis, and President Joe Biden.
Today, Knock Shrine, which sits just 20 minutes away from Ireland West Airport - which itself was opened by Monsignor James Horan, Knock's Parish Priest - is a world renowned destination for pilgrims looking to reconnect with their faith, to heal, and to pray.
If you're planning a trip to Ireland, I'd encourage you to visit. You can learn more about the Apparition, and things to do and see at Knock, on their website.