National Grandparents Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine

What to Expect

The sixth annual National Grandparents Pilgrimage coincides with the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2026 at Knock Shrine. Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, President of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, is the principal celebrant. The programme opens at 2:30pm with the Anointing of the Sick in the Basilica, followed by Mass at 3:00pm. Special guest Dana joins choirs and musicians led by Una Nolan. A Rosary Procession through the Shrine grounds follows the Mass, weather permitting. The theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV is “I will never forget you” (Isaiah 49:15). Parish groups and individuals from across the Armagh archdiocese regularly travel by bus to this pilgrimage.

Good to Know

• Date: Sunday 26 July 2026

• 2:30pm Anointing of the Sick; 3:00pm Mass in the Basilica

• Venue: Knock Shrine, Co. Mayo (day-trip from Armagh)

• Free to attend; check with your local parish for group bus arrangements

• Organised by the Catholic Grandparents Association

Getting There

Knock Shrine is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Armagh city by car via the M1 and N17. Many Armagh parishes organise group buses; contact your local parish office for travel arrangements.