This past Saturday, 14 June, over 300 young adults gathered at the International Eucharistic Marian Shrine in Knock for a faith event titled Dare to Hope. The gathering served as a preview of the upcoming Jubilee of Youth pilgrimage to Rome, taking place this July and August.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a variety of workshops focused on faith, community, and personal growth. The event concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist in the Shrine’s parish church. Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork and Ross presided over the Mass, joined by several other bishops and clergy including Parish Priest and Rector of the Shrine, Father Richard Gibbons, who concelebrated the Mass.
In his homily, speaking especially to young adults, Bishop Gavin said, ” If you were to think of the happiest moments in your life, chances are they involved other people. A birthday, a holiday, a special meal, or night out – what made it memorable?
“It’s likely, it was the people you shared it with, some element of communion, some experience of relationship. Even in our age of great individualism, we know instinctively that no person is an island.
“This is true in faith life too. Think of our Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation, Marriage, or Final Profession or Ordination. These are sacred milestones, and they are never experienced alone. They are moments we share with those who love us – family, friends, community. People who know us and care for us and want to share in our joy.”
Bishop Gavin continued, “Today we celebrate not some abstract fact but the incredible truth that lies at the heart of our Christian faith; God has opened his heart to us and invited us to share in his life. In this evening’s Gospel, Jesus says: ‘Everything the Father has is mine. All the Spirit tells you will be taken from what is mine.’ And Saint Paul in the second reading reminds us: ‘The love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit.’”
The uplifting day also marked a significant milestone with the official opening of the new €1.5 million Knock Youth Village. Archbishop Francis Duffy of Tuam led the opening ceremony and offered a special blessing for the village. Keynote speaker Father Conor McDonough OP delivered a talk on lesser-known blesseds and saints, highlighting how their lives can inspire and guide young people today.
Visit CatholicBishops.ie to read the full text of Bishop Gavin’s homily.
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Young adults aged 18 to 30 are warmly invited to Dare to Hope – a dynamic, faith-filled day taking place on 14 June at the Youth Village in Knock Shrine. Hosted by the Irish Bishops’ Conference, in collaboration with the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine at Knock, this special event offers a chance to explore faith, deepen spirituality, and connect with others in a supportive and joyful community.
With a €20 attendance fee, participants will enjoy a full day of inspiring keynote talks, interactive workshops, and time for prayer and reflection. The day will culminate in a con-celebrated Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady, with Bishop Fintan Gavin of Cork and Ross – who also chairs the Bishops’ Council for Pastoral Renewal and Adult Faith Development – as chief celebrant.
Speaking ahead of the event, Bishop Gavin said, “In a world where young people are searching for purpose and belonging, this gathering offers a space to encounter Christ, explore faith, and find hope together in community. All are welcome.”
Throughout the day, a range of workshops will offer participants the opportunity to reflect, share, and grow in faith. Discerning God’s Voice in Your Daily Journey, led by Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ of Down and Connor and Brother Simon Fernandes, will offer practical tools for making confident decisions and recognising God’s guidance in everyday life.
How to Speak About Your Faith, led by Eoin McCormack and Angela Agito, uses role-play to help young adults communicate their beliefs authentically and respectfully, inspired by Pope Saint John Paul II’s call to propose, not impose, the faith.
Nature and spirituality intertwine in Creation Walk, guided by Jane Mellett and Róisín Alexander of Trócaire. This reflective journey explores the beauty of the cosmos and the divine presence within creation, bridging faith and science.
Father Conor McGrath of Down and Connor will lead Rediscovering Reconciliation in a Fragmented World, a workshop inviting participants to experience the Sacrament of Reconciliation not just as forgiveness, but as a pathway to freedom and deeper relationship with God.
Finally, God’s Word as it Speaks to Me Today, facilitated by Lorraine Buckley and Sheila Kelleher, will explore the personal relevance and power of Scripture in daily life.
As places are limited, booking is essential. Please click HERE to reserve your place.