LOUGH Derg is preparing to welcome people back for a Lakeshore Pilgrimage for September after Covid-19 cancelled the traditional summer season two years in a row. The team at Lough Derg have developed a new pilgrimage experience on the Lakeshore along the Lough Derg Pilgrim Path and it will open to pilgrims in September.

The new walk will allow people to attend Lough Derg for a guided Lakeshore Pilgrimage on September 12, 15, 18, 26 and October 3.  The Pilgrim Path walk experience, guided by the Prior and Team, includes some ‘stational’ elements to connect people with the traditional Three-Day Pilgrimage: prayer at the statue of

Patrick the Pilgrim, at St Brigid’s Well, at Saints Island; and a pause for prayer at each of the nine Lough Derg Values.
The Covid-19 situation prevented Lough Derg from reopening its traditional Three-Day Pilgrimage and One Day Retreats, which drew thousands to Donegal every summer, from Ireland and around the world.

Fr La Flynn, Lough Derg Prior, moved out once again to the Island alone on June 1 this summer and remained there until the August 15, marking the traditional Lough Derg ‘season’.

Speaking about the guided Pilgrimage which people can now book, Fr La said, “In July we were delighted to welcome pilgrims back to our Pilgrim Path here on the shore of Lough Derg and the encouraging feedback we received spurred us to plan these further dates for September.

“We propose that as they walk, pilgrims might pray in their own way and also take some quiet time to be in touch with nature and to talk with God. Those who walk the Path in company with others can share some of their memories, stories and experiences in relation to past visits to Lough Derg.

“With our organised groups, and if the weather is suitable, we offer the possibility of Mass on a rock at the old quarry before the final stretch of the route. There are many echoes of our Christian past along the way, as well as the delight of a diverse natural habitat. I am looking forward to September and the opportunity of helping our pilgrims make these walks a true experience of Pilgrimage in the Lough Derg tradition. I would love for you to come and re-connect with the Lough Derg Pilgrimage in the nature-rich setting along the lough shore,” said Fr La.

The Lough Derg Pilgrim Path on the Lakeshore is also open daily to those who wish to come and walk it in a prayerful pilgrim spirit. Contact Lough Derg 00353 (0) 71 9861518, email info@loughderg.org for more information.