Pilgrimage to Eu, Normandy – A Truly Historic Journey in Honour of St. Lawrence O’Toole 
Last weekend, our pilgrims were blessed to take part in an extraordinarily unique and deeply moving pilgrimage to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the canonisation of St. Lawrence O’Toole, the beloved Patron Saint of the Archdiocese of Dublin. 
This pilgrimage was remarkable in so many ways. It was a powerful symbol of Christian unity, led jointly by Archbishop Dermot Farrell, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Dublin, and Archbishop Michael Jackson, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin and Bishop of Glendalough. This ecumenical witness beautifully reflected the shared reverence both churches hold for St. Lawrence O’Toole, a man of profound faith, peace, and reconciliation — qualities that transcend denomination and time. 
Our sacred journey brought us to Eu, Normandy, the final resting place of St. Lawrence. The highlight for many was the celebration of the Eucharist in the Collegiate Church of Eu, where his holy body lies. Archbishop Dermot Farrell was the main celebrant at this most special Mass. His homily was translated into French to warmly include the local clergy and devotees. To read Archbishop Dermot’s homily, click on the link below:
One particularly moving moment was hearing the ‘Our Father’ prayed in the Irish language, echoing the spiritual heritage of our saint and homeland.
We were honoured by the presence of many distinguished guests including:
Mr. Niall Burgess, Irish Ambassador to France
Archbishop Dominique Lebrun of Rouen
Bishop Gérard Le Stang of Amiens
The Knights of the Holy Sepulchre
Michel Barbier, Mayor of the City of Eu
Our pilgrimage also included a rich tapestry of moments: a visit to the Castle of Eu, a reverent procession of the relics of St. Lawrence, the celebration of Vespers in Rouen Cathedral, and a deeply touching visit to the site of St. Joan of Arc’s martyrdom, where she was burned at the stake.
This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage — filled with history, unity, prayer, and reverence. It was a magnificent way to honour the life and legacy of St. Lawrence O’Toole, a bridge between nations, traditions, and hearts.
May he continue to inspire us all on our pilgrim journey.
Originally posted to Marian Pilgrimages Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1090521209767525&id=100064289695870
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St Patrick's Church Ringsend 