Lough Derg uniting in prayer with Ukraine and it’s people
The Prior Monsignor La Flynn, and staff team at Lough Derg, have been encouraged by the stories of pilgrims who have visited ‘the Island’ over the last months. Many were stories of extending a hand of love, solidarity, friendship and welcome to refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine into homes and communities across the island of Ireland.
To honour this witness of christian service and to unite Lough Derg’s ‘storehouse of prayer’ with the intentions of people around the world for an end to the conflict in Ukraine, the final One Day Retreat of the 2022 pilgrimage season – Sunday 25th September – will be one where prayers for peace and an end to the suffering of the Ukrainian people will be central.
In speaking about the planned day, Monsignor Flynn commented:
As part of this special day, Halyna Tesluk, Associate Professor of Old Testament At The Ukrainian Catholic University has been invited as a guest speaker. Halyna and her two sons are themselves refugees in Ireland since April.
On the day, boats to Station Island will begin at 9.15am, with the programme of prayer and reflection beginning at 10.15am. The day will end with the celebration of Mass, and boats will return to the mainland at 4.30pm.
Lough Derg hopes that dioceses and parish communities across the country will encourage and enable Ukrainian refugees who have sought refuge with them to be present for this special day. A discounted rate of €25 for Ukrainian refugees is offered. Tea/Coffee on arrival and lunch are included. Own transport will need to be arranged. Advanced booking is essential: those wishing to avail of the special discounted rate are asked to telephone the Lough Derg Office to book +353(0)71 9861518; general bookings can be made via www.booking.loughderg.org.
