Between four and five hundred people from Ballyea/Clarecastle Parish braved the elements yesterday evening to take part in a Mass at St John’s Well at Killone Abbey. It was well worth the effort as the occasion was unique as the crowd retraced the steps of pilgrims of years ago. It was a truly spiritually uplifting experience and there was a great sense of Community spirit.
Dr Joe Power addresses the group in Ballybeg
Approximately 150 people gathered at the carpark in Ballybeg Woods and walked for 20 minutes along the Pilgrim’s Road to St John’s Well at Killone Abbey. There they met the remainder of the crowd who had come from the Ballyea entrance to the Abbey. All gathered together for a moving Mass which was concelebrated by Bishop Kieran and Fr Brady. Dr Joe Power, a local historian gave a short talk on the interesting history of the St John’s Well and beautiful leaflets were distributed giving further details of the importance and history of the Well.
Walk on the Pilgrims Road
Refreshments were available for all afterwards in the Abbey which was a good chance for all to meet and chat. Children had a great chance to investigate the nooks and crannies around the Abbey.
Congratulations to all involved in organising this memorable evening. It took great efforts and they were very much appreciated.
The Pilgrims Road
For all those that missed yesterday evening’s Mass, you will have a chance to take part in the Abbey to Abbey heritage walk and blessing of the graves in mid July as part of the Clarecastle Gathering. A walk will take place from Clare Abbey to Killone Abbey along the Pilgrim’s Road with a short talk on the history of the area along the way. Further details of dates and times of this will follow shortly.
Clarecastle Community Development 