More than 150,000 people are expected to participate in the 31st National Solemn Novena at Knock Shrine commencing on Thursday next, August 14.
The Novena, which first began in 1977, provides a time and space for people to celebrate their faith, give thanks for their faith and be renewed in their faith at Ireland’s National Marian Shrine – the Shrine of the Lamb of God.
The theme of the 2008 Novena is “The Creed that is Dear to the Church” and a number of well-known speakers will reflect on different aspects of the theme during the nine day Novena which concludes on August 22.
Two sessions take place each day – at 3pm in the afternoon and 8.30pm in the evening.
The afternoon session at 3pm will include the Anointing of the Sick and conclude with a Eucharistic Procession and Benediction at the Apparition Chapel, while the evening session, commencing at 8.30pm, will conclude with a Candlelight Rosary Procession.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (confessions ) will be available for nine hours daily in the Reconciliation Chapel where a large team of confessors will be on hand to administer the sacrament in various languages.
Choirs from all over the west of Ireland and beyond as well as a number of well-known soloists will provide sacred music and singing during the ceremonies.
The 3pm session will be broadcast daily on the worldwide web by Mid West Irish Radio on www.midwestirishradio.com For further information contact the Knock Shrine Office at 094 938 8100 or visit the Knock Shrine website www.knock-shrine.ie
