Pope Francis has formally elevated the Knock shrine from a national to an international sanctuary, which he said bestows a “great responsibility” on the Co Mayo site. At a virtual Mass on Friday, the pope said this marked an “important moment” in the life of the Marian Shrine at Knock. Ever since, Pope Francis said, the Irish people, wherever they have found themselves, have “expressed their faith and devotion to Our Lady of Knock”. Profound gratitudeCustodian of the shrine, Archbishop Michael Neary, said the shift of status was a “momentous event”. The Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Neary and concelebrated by Fr Richard Gibbons, parish priest and rector of Knock shrine.

Source: The Irish Times March 19, 2021 20:37 UTC