The forecast rain held off as Bishop Emeritus John Crowley returned to the diocese as principal celebrant for our annual Assumption Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Grace.

Around 250 hardy pilgrims braved the difficult conditions on the climb to the Lady Chapel after heavy downfalls earlier in the day.

Bishop John celebrated 10am Mass at the cathedral on Sunday morning before travelling to Osmotherley, where he prayed the Rosary and concelebrated Mass with about 15 priests.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for me to welcome Bishop John on behalf of Bishop Terry,” said Monsignor Gerard Robinson.

Clergy at the 2018 Assumption Pilgrimage – Photo by John Buckton

“He was very happy to be back in the diocese and the drive up to the Lady Chapel brought many memories back for him.

“He saw many people he hadn’t seen for a long time and stayed afterwards till about 5.30pm as he chatted and caught up with the ups and downs in their lives.

“It was also a great joy to have our newly ordained priest Father Richard Marsden with us as he begins his ministry at the cathedral.”

Pilgrims at the 2018 Assumption Pilgrimage – Photo by John Buckton

Monsignor Robinson thanked the Knights of St Columba for helping with parking and getting people up and down the hill, as well as all those who contributed food to the shared meal the followed the service.

The Friends of the Lady Chapel is an organisation whose members are united in the spirituality of the Lady Chapel through an annual Mass and daily prayers and also receive newsletters and invitations to events. A suggested membership donation is £10 a year for an individual or a family group.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A FRIENDS OF THE LADY CHAPEL APPLICATION FORM