The Hub stands for hear, understand, believe, and that is what Knock Shrine wants to help young people who visit the Shrine to do. The Hub is a place for all young people who visit the National Marian Shrine but also for all local teens and children in the surrounding areas.
Knock Youth Ministry felt there was something missing in Knock. “Throughout the year, schools come to the Shrine from all over the country for a school retreat experience, but nothing was happening for young people who visit throughout the summer and there was no youth service for the thousands of young families who visit the Shrine every year,” explained Helen Toner, youth director.
The Hub is located in the middle of the Knock Shrine grounds (some might call it the hub of the Shrine ) and is open Thursday to Sunday. When you look at the Hub from the outside the colourful blinds and bright signage are a clear indicator that there is a youthful presence and look of the place. There are three elements to the hub, the first one is the ‘drop in’. The drop in is for teens and young adults. Here you can help yourself to tea, coffee and drinks. There is an array of resources for people to read and learn more about their faith, it is also an area to chill out and chat with other young people. Once a month Knock Youth Ministry host a movie night for all 12-15 year olds.
The kids’ club is open Friday to Sunday and runs hourly sessions for all children over five years old. While pilgrims and parishioners are in Knock Shrine they can drop their child into the kids’ club for an hour and while your children are in the Hub they will hear the gospel of the day, play games, take part in different activities like colouring and puzzles, and hear more about the Apparition at Knock, while mam or dad have a quiet coffee, visit confessions, or attend Mass in peace.
There is also a facility for group retreats or diocesan groups who wish to take part in a day retreat with the Youth Ministry in Knock. For more information on what is happening in Knock for young people visit www.knock-shrine.ie/thehub or call 087 692 7850.
