Bishop launches diocesan pilgrimage from Carlow to Lodi, Italy in July

BISHOP Denis Nulty has officially launched a diocesan pilgrimage to Lodi, Italy for the 27th International Columbanus Weekend, with a delegation from the diocese of Kildare and Leighlin set to travel in July to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Carlow’s most celebrated historical figures.

The launch took place in the Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Myshall, a fitting setting, given that St Columbanus, the sixth century Irish missionary monk, was born in the shadow of nearby Mount Leinster. Among those present were Fr Pat Hughes, Fr Thomas O’Byrne, Patsy McLean, president of the Friends of Columbanus ROI, representatives of the Friends of Columbanus Myshall and Michael Brennan, director of services at Carlow Co Council.

The pilgrimage will take place from 3-6 July, following the hugely successful hosting of the Columbanus weekend in Carlow last July, which attracted visitors from France, Italy, Germany and Switzerland.

This year’s gathering in Lodi promises a rich programme, blending pilgrimage, spiritual reflection and cultural exchange. Highlights will include a visit to the historic town of Bobbio, where Columbanus founded his final monastery and is buried, as well as a 13km walk along the Columban Way through Sant’Angelo Lodigiano to San Colombano al Lambro, tracing the saint’s own footsteps.

A solemn celebration of the Eucharist, a pilgrims’ dinner in the courtyard of the Bishop’s Palace, evening concerts and a visit to Milan are also among the planned events.

Bishop Nulty said the pilgrimage offers a unique chance to deepen understanding of the saint’s enduring legacy.

“We all remember with great fondness the celebrations in Carlow last July honouring St Columbanus,” he said. “This pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of St Columbanus and to strengthen the bonds that exist between communities across Europe.

“As the birthplace of Columbanus, Carlow has a special responsibility to keep his legacy alive. This gathering in Lodi is not only a celebration of faith but also of shared heritage, friendship and cultural exchange.” 

The pilgrimage is open to all who wish to take part. Travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation and a full programme of events, are being co-ordinated by Tully’s Travel in Carlow, which is acting as official booking agent.

The Columban Way stretches more than 5,000km across Europe, including a 571km Irish route running from Myshall to Bangor, and continues to grow as a significant cultural and pilgrimage route connecting Carlow with key Columbanus sites across the continent.

For further information or to book a place, contact Tully’s Travel on 059 9136100 or visit www.kandle.ie or www.carlowtourism.com/thecolumbanway.