By Michelle Geraghty
The annual Galway Novena to ‘Our Mother of Perpetual Help’ is underway at Galway Cathedral. The Novena, which celebrates its 40th anniversary, is spreading Pope Francis’ message of hope.
The Novena runs for nine days, ending on 13 February, with sessions running at 11am, 1.10pm, and 7.30pm on weekdays and 10.30am, 12.30pm, 3pm, and 6pm on weekends.
Younger attendees
Fr John Gerard Action, curator at Galway Cathedral, is always amazed at the appeal and spiritual significance of the Novena in the lives of many.
“The demographic spread of attendees is quite diverse, spanning various age groups and backgrounds, which enriches the communal experience,” he said
“Particularly noteworthy this year is the increase in younger attendees, which is a positive sign of the Novena’s growing relevance among the younger generation, adding a new layer of energy and perspective to our traditional gatherings,” he added.
Esteemed speakers
The Novena will welcome several esteemed speakers this year, including Bishop of Galway Michael Duignan, who will speak to the congregation on Sunday, 11 February.
Fr Acton, a native of Moycullen, said there had been notable interest around Geraldine Mullan’s upcoming talk on Thursday, 8 February.
“Many attendees, both regular and new, have expressed a keen interest in her story,” he said, “Geraldine’s journey of navigating through the depths of personal loss to rediscover hope resonates with a universal longing for light in times of darkness.”
On 20 August, 2020, Ms Mullan faced an irreversible tragedy, losing her husband John (49), and their children Tomás (14) and Amelia (6) in a catastrophic car accident.
“Her message promises to be a beacon of hope for many, offering a deeply personal yet universally applicable perspective on finding strength and solace in faith,” said Fr Acton.
Events for the calendar
A guided holy hour by candlelight will also occur nightly between 8.30pm and 9.30pm, except Saturday and Sunday.
Confessions will be heard daily (except Sunday), starting an hour before each session and continuing for an hour after each session.
The ‘Sacrament of the Sick’ will be celebrated on Saturday, 10 February at 11:00am, welcoming all who are “burdened by illness or who feel the weight of years”.
And the Consecration of Families to Our Lady will take place at all sessions on Sunday, 11 February.
Live-stream
The final session each day will be live-streamed on the Cathedral webcam, as well as on YouTube and Facebook.