The 50th Anniversary of Knock Basilica

With hearts full of gratitude and joy, pilgrims gathered at Knock Shrine to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Basilica of Our Lady, Queen of Ireland. The day was marked by prayer, thanksgiving, and joyful reflection, giving thanks for fifty years of God's blessings through this sacred place of pilgrimage. Opened in 1976 through the vision of Monsignor James Horan, the Basilica has welcomed millions of pilgrims from Ireland and around the world. Today, under the dedicated leadership of Fr. Richard Gibbons, the Shrine continues to flourish as a place of prayer, peace, and welcome for all. The celebration was further enriched by the presence of the Capuchin friars from Church Street Friary, Dublin, along with two visiting friars from Italy. As we give thanks for the past fifty years, we pray that Our Lady of Knock will continue to guide all who come to this holy shrine in faith, hope, and peace.