Smaller numbers undertake Croagh Patrick pilgrimage
Westport, 30 July 1917 - This year has seen a decline in the number of people who have undertaken the Croagh Patrick pilgrimage in Co. Mayo.
The decline in pilgrims has been attributed to a lack of train facilities and even though 14 special trains ran, this was 12 fewer than last year. As well as a reduced number of trains running, there was an increase in fares. The fare from Dublin, having previously been 5s return, was 20s 6d on this occasion. A large number of motor cars also brought people from Westport to Murrisk at the foot of the mountain. Others travelled long distances on bicycles.
Those who did make the journey – or could afford to – were treated to ‘summerlike’ weather, and from 6.30am till midday, masses were celebrated continuously at the three altars in the oratory on the summit.
In the last mass of the day, Fr Patterson, CC Westport, spoke at length on a new mission to China where Irish religious were being sent to ‘convert the heathen’. He further remarked that, in supporting the mission, Irish people had taken the view that ‘the work of Christ must always come before the world’s work’.
Confessions were heard throughout the day on the peak of the mountain and in Westport.
[Editor's note: This is an article from Century Ireland, a fortnightly online newspaper, written from the perspective of a journalist 100 years ago, based on news reports of the time.]
