As the 2025 pilgrimage season comes to a close, the team at Lough Derg near Pettigo has witnessed a significant rise in pilgrim numbers during this Jubilee Year.
The traditional three day pilgrimage experienced an 11% increase, welcoming 4,040 pilgrims, with a notable rise in younger pilgrims undertaking this profound spiritual journey. Meanwhile, a total of 5,491 came for the one day retreats, marking a 23% rise with an influx of Parish Groups enriching the pilgrimage experience.
Pilgrims gather inside Saint Patrick’s Basilica on Station Island, Lough Derg during the 2025 pilgrimage season.
School retreats continued to flourish, including students from 62 schools who participated in Confirmation retreat days, and the island also welcomed international pilgrim groups from several countries including Holland, the United States, China, and Singapore.
“The increased number of pilgrims this year reaffirms Lough Derg’s role as a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal,” a spokesperson said.
“We believe this season has underscored the timeless relevance of pilgrimage,” added Monsignor La Flynn, Prior of Lough Derg.
“The increase in pilgrim numbers is a testament to the enduring spiritual hunger for peace, reflection, and deep relationship with God. It seems that Pope Francis’ choice of the Pilgrims of Hope theme for Jubilee Year 2025 has evoked in many people a rediscovery of the profound benefits of pilgrimage.”
Pilgrims at one of the stations on Lough Derg.
The ‘Pilgrim Passport’ initiative has undoubtedly enhanced this year’s pilgrimage season. In collaboration with Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick, this project encouraged pilgrims to undertake spiritual journeys across these revered sacred sites. The life-shore Pilgrim Path at Lough Derg remains open for pilgrimage all year round.
For more information about future pilgrimages and retreats at Lough Derg, please visit www.loughderg.org
‘Heartening’ rise as almost 10,000 pilgrims visit Lough Derg this year was last modified: October 1st, 2025 by Staff Writer
Tags: