Pope Francis Set to Visit Ireland in August; First Papal Visit After 40 Years

Pope Francis
Pope Francis (photo: Facebook)
By M. GraceMarch 22nd, 2018

Pope Francis will be visiting Ireland in August 25 and will be celebrating mass in the Phoenix Park for the Festival of Families.

The 81-year-old Pontiff's schedule is confirmed today.

His trip is considered as the first papal visit in nearly 40 years. Confirmation of  his visit has been welcomed by the Catholic Bishop's Conference.

 "We are deeply honored that Pope Francis will come to our country to participate in this universal church celebration of faith and joy, as well as of the contemporary challenges which face families," the bishops said in a statement.

"With great anticipation we also look forward to hearing the apostolic guidance of His Holiness during his stay with us," they added. "We eagerly await the visit of Pope Francis, which no doubt will be an occasion of spiritual renewal for our laity, religious and clergy as well as a strengthening of Christian family life."

Despite speculations saying that the pope will visit Northern Ireland, it has been confirmed that he will only visit Dublin.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar  also welcomed the news of Pope Francis' plan to visit Ireland.

"On behalf of the Government I welcome the announcement by Pope Francis of his intention to come to Ireland in August for the World Meeting of Families," he said, adding "I look forward to meeting him during his visit."

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