14-06-2025
€1.5 million accommodation village to officially open at Knock Shrine
The state-of-the-art Knock Youth Village Retreat facility will be officially opened by Francis Duffy, Archbishop of Tuam, on Saturday, June 14.
This impressive new complex is comprised of eco-friendly, self-catering accommodation which has been designed with comfort and sustainability in mind.
The accommodation features smart technology, high spec finishes, full ensuite facilities, twin bedded accommodation, controllable ventilation and under-floor heating. The dedicated central hub offers an open-plan bright space for residents, with a fully equipped kitchen and additional accommodation for retreat leaders.
The complex consists of nine twin pods with accommodation for up to two people and one larger pod with one double bed and two bunk beds which sleeps up to five people and is fully wheelchair accessible.
Speaking ahead of the official launch, Fr Richard Gibbons, Parish Priest and Rector of Knock Shrine said that Knock Youth Village 'will serve as a wonderful resource' for the Catholic Church in Ireland, 'providing groups of all ages with a place to come together and grow in faith'.
The official opening coincides with the start of 'Dare to Hope', a faith gathering of young adults aged 18 to 30. The gathering will be hosted by the Irish Bishops' Conference in collaboration with Knock Shrine.
'We look forward to welcoming the Irish Catholic Bishops Conference and all those who are attending the 'Dare to Hope' event, to experience first-hand this exciting new development here at Knock,' added Fr Gibbons.
The event aims to 'inspire participants to deepen their faith and renew their commitment to Christ, guided by the theme of hope'.
The gathering will feature expert speakers, faith sharing experiences, and a concluding Mass celebrated by Bishop Fintan Gavin.
