The Holy, the Hallowed, and a Hint of Hilarity: St Bernadette’s Relics Roll into Cork!
Well, well, well, if it isn’t the relics of St Bernadette making a swift stop in Cork! They’re apparently on a two-month pilgrimage around Ireland—perhaps trying to out-saint the saints or just seeking the best pint! If you’ve ever wanted to be in the presence of something miraculous without actually having to take a really long bus trip to Lourdes, you’re in luck! Starting on Wednesday, October 30, you can pay your respects right in the heart of the city at the Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne.
Now, let’s get our facts straight. St Bernadette had a bit of a busy schedule back in 1858, witnessing 18 apparitions of Our Lady. Obviously, this girl didn’t know the meaning of “one and done.” Today, she’s got more glamour than a Kardashian at a two-for-one deal! Her shrine in Lourdes attracts crowds of devoted pilgrims every year, but this time, some lucky souls will be able to venerate her relics without having to brave an airplane’s in-flight snacks. If only you could get frequent flyer miles for this little trip!
Mark Your Calendars!
The cathedral doors will fling open at 4 PM on Wednesday, with a veneration window from 4:20 PM to 6:45 PM—just so we’re clear, no ‘bring your own relics’ policy here! The main event, however, is at 7 PM with a Concelebrated Mass led by the ever-dignified Bishop Fintan Gavin. Looking for a post-Mass miracle? Worry not; public veneration continues from 8 PM to 10 PM.
What’s Happening Next?
On Thursday, veneration resumes bright and early from 6 AM to noon, because nothing says “relics” like an early start! Don’t forget Mass at 10 AM; it’s literally liturgical tea time! Then the relics will make their way to the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Clonakilty, arriving at 2 PM for another round of veneration. Who knew holy relics could create such a buzz? 2:30 PM to 7:45 PM is the sweet spot before Mass at 8 PM—another chance for heavenly hashtags!
Bring Your Petitions!
Our good old mate Fr Tom Hayes, the parish priest of Clonakilty, has been waxing lyrical about the deep affection people have for Lourdes. He’s got a point! Lots of folks have put in requests through the years—petitions tucked in their back pockets like fossils! This visit is a rare chance to actually get up close and personal with St Bernadette’s relics. The genius move here: you can bring your petitions and place them in containers at both churches. For those who can’t make it, there’s even an online petition option. Talk about a digital-age miracle! Fr Hayes is working hard to ensure that all your prayers can be downloaded onto a USB stick and taken right back to Lourdes for the ultimate souvenir run. Let’s just hope they don’t end up in the wrong hands—talk about a clerical error!
What’s the Verdict?
It’s clear from the buzz around the visit that lots of people are eager to pay their respects. The Archbishop of Armagh, Eamonn Martin, calls this pilgrimage a fitting prelude to the launch of the Jubilee Year 2025—‘Pilgrims of Hope.’ That’s sweet and all, but let’s hope they serve better tea than hope and dreams!
So, get yourselves ready for an influx of penitents and relic-seekers in Cork next week! Whether you’re a firm believer or just want a fun story to tell, it looks like this holy roadshow is the place to be. Who knows, you might just walk away with a miracle—or at the very least, a good selfie with a relic.
For more info on how to submit your petitions online, including the details of this holy pilgrimage, check out the official site. Now, go on—make your plans! Who needs a regular Friday night when you can stand next to a saintly relic?
