Ireland’s only pilgrimage expressly designed for fathers will take place on Sunday, March 21 in Knock. 
The event, which was launched in 2003, has attracted many thousands of families since it began, and involves fathers and mothers praying for each other, for children and for families.
The organisers of the pilgrimage argue that the role of fathers in the family is often overlooked or taken for granted.
Mr Sean Davin, one of the people behind the event, says that fathers “need help and support and prayer and encouragement in their vital task of helping to raise the next generation”.
The speaker this year will be Spiritual Director Fr Philip McParland OCD.
According to the organisers: “The pilgrimage offers a welcome Lenten opportunity for men and their families. Whether celebrating Fatherhood or trying to cope with personal or economic pressures, they will come to Knock in hope, to reflect and pray to St Joseph and the Holy Family.”
This year is the eighth successive year of pilgrimage around the Solemnity of St Joseph.
The pilgrimage will take place on Sunday 21st March 2010 commencing at 2pm in the Basilica at Knock, Co Mayo. Knock is one of only two shrines in the world where there has been a reported public apparition of St Joseph.
Current economic ills and rising unemployment are putting intense pressure on households, according to the organisers, adding to other ills including marriage breakdown and absentee fathers.
Furthermore, unethical behaviour by business leaders and scandals in Church and State have caused a breakdown of trust, damaging the pillars of Irish society.
Mr Davin said: “Children of all ages need to see their parents – particularly Fathers – living their faith in practical ways through their daily work if they themselves are to grow in hope. The example of St Joseph is more relevant today than ever.
“This ordinary man accepted the most extraordinary job in history, i.e. it was God’s wish for him to take responsibility for providing a home and protecting the pregnant Mary; to work and provide for her and that he would rear Jesus.
“Moreover, Joseph took his family on pilgrimage each year to honour God. His willing acceptance of God’s wish and his respect for Mary as Mother makes Joseph the essential role model for modern Christian fatherhood.”
Recent studies point to the vital role played by Fathers in passing on the faith to their children. An in-depth European survey reported in recent years was revealing: in homes where Fathers were committed to regular practise, their children were up to 20 times more likely to attend mass than those whose Fathers did not practice.
