Thousands expected for National Novena in Knock marking Basilica's 50th anniversary

The Knock National Novena is set to take place this Thursday, August 13.

Thousands of pilgrims are expected to gather at Knock Shrine from 13 - 21 August 2026 for the annual National Novena to Our Lady of Knock.

This year's Novena, themed 'Sheltered in God's Love', also marks the 50th anniversary of Knock Basilica, celebrating its enduring role as a place of prayer, hope and welcome for generations of pilgrims across Ireland and abroad.

For nine days, the National Novena will offer a rich programme of liturgies, inspiring talks, workshops and prayer, inviting people of all ages to step away from the demands of daily life and rediscover the peace found in faith.

Since 1977, the National Novena has welcomed pilgrims from every corner of Ireland and from around the world, becoming one of the highlights of the pilgrimage season at Knock Shrine.

Daily ceremonies will take place in Knock Basilica at 3.00pm and 8.00pm, featuring guest speakers whose personal stories and reflections explore faith in contemporary life.

The Anointing of the Sick will take place each day at 2.30pm, while daily workshops at 12.45pm will provide opportunities for pilgrims to reflect more deeply on the Novena's themes.

Weather permitting, each evening shall conclude with the traditional Candlelight Procession through the Shrine grounds.

This year's guest speakers include broadcaster Mary Kennedy; Bishop Niall Coll, Bishop of Raphoe; Bishop Kevin Doran, Bishop of Achonry and of Elphin; Dr Sandra Cullen; David Wells; Deacon Mark Paine; and, Father Paul Murphy.

There will also be powerful personal testimonies from Aidan Fallagher of Cenacolo Community, Niamh Mcann of CJ’s Rainbow, and student Mario Nunis.

A special highlight of the Novena is Family Day on Sunday, 16 August, when families are invited to enjoy a day of celebration in the beautiful grounds of Knock Shrine.

Beginning with a Blessing of Families at 11.00am in the Parish Church, the day features free activities including arts and crafts, games and interactive workshops.

The Novena concludes on 21 August, the anniversary of the Apparition at Knock in 1879.

Closing celebrations include the annual Witness Walk, retracing the footsteps of the original witnesses to the Apparition, followed by the final evening ceremony in Knock Basilica.

Ahead of the National Novena, Father Richard Gibbons, Parish Priest and Rector of Knock Shrine, said, "Each year the National Novena offers people an opportunity to pause, pray and experience the peace that Knock has offered pilgrims for generations.

“This year's theme, 'Sheltered in God's Love,' reminds us that, whatever challenges we carry, God remains our refuge and our hope

“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Knock Basilica, we look forward to welcoming pilgrims from every parish and every walk of life to share in these special nine days."

Throughout the Novena, pilgrims can also participate in themed guided prayer sessions and guided tours of Knock Shrine. Full details of the programme, guest speakers and workshops are available at www.knockshrine.ie