The traditional Three Day Pilgrimage season at Lough Derg opened last week, following an ecumenical gathering on Station Island which brought together nearly 100 people from different Christian traditions.
The annual Day of Friendship and Prayer took place on May 20, ahead of the pilgrimage season, with the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh, John McDowell, and the Catholic Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin, attending as special guests.
Pilgrims and visitors travelled from across Ireland for the gathering, which focused on dialogue, shared faith and Christian friendship.
Following a welcome from the Prior of Lough Derg, Fr La Flynn, the two Archbishops took part in a conversation on friendship and prayer in their shared ministry as Archbishops of Armagh.
They spoke about the importance of friendship between churches, mutual giving and receiving, and acknowledging difference without allowing it to become division.
Archbishop McDowell also challenged those present to reflect on the place of migrants and newcomers within society and the churches, saying that a Christian’s attitude to migrants is a “touchstone” of faith. He warned that racism is becoming “the new form of sectarianism”.
Fr Flynn said friendship and prayer are “always at the heart” of the annual gathering, adding that it was encouraging to see people from different Christian traditions listening, speaking and praying together.
The gathering took place as St Patrick’s Basilica marks 100 years since the laying of its foundation stone in 2026.
Lough Derg also said more than 1,500 young people had visited Station Island over recent months for its Confirmation Retreat Days.
