Knock Shrine set to reopen to the public

KNOCK Shrine will gradually reopen to the public from Monday next, June 29.

With limits on the numbers attending indoor gatherings, admission to Mass will be on a first come basis.

In a social media post, shrine authorities said they are very confident that the necessary measures are in place to ensure the health and safety of everyone visiting the shrine. Every precaution is being taken to allow pilgrims, parishioners, staff and volunteers to come together safely for the celebration of Mass and for private prayer, in line with the current government restrictions on mass gatherings.

The information issued below is effective from Monday, June 29, to Friday, July 3, inclusive. Should government guidelines and restrictions change in the future, further updates regarding the celebration of public Mass at Knock Shrine will be posted as soon as they become available.

The celebration of public Mass will resume on Monday, June 29, at 12 noon, 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. daily, with Rosary at 7 p.m. All Masses will be celebrated in Knock Parish Church until further notice and the church will remain closed to the public at all other times due to cleaning.

In line with public health advice, Knock Shrine is currently limited to indoor gatherings of up to 50 people, including clergy, staff and volunteers. Therefore, for the time being, the numbers attending Mass will be very restricted and because of this, your understanding and patience is requested.

Admission will be on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and a strict queuing system will be in place prior to the commencement of Mass. Once the indoor maximum capacity has been reached, you are asked not to continue to queue as entry to the church will not be possible.

The shrine is asking that people only attend one daily Mass in this period so they can accommodate as many parishioners and pilgrims as possible.

All daily Masses will be streamed live on the website at https://www.knockshrine.ie/watch-live/?v=d2cb7bbc0d23. If you feel that you are at risk, you can join the online for the celebration of Mass from the safety of home.

More details regarding Mass times, Confessions and private prayer are on the shrine's website.

* Knock Shrine Basilica, image from A & D Wejchert & Partners Architects