ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE:The papal nuncio to Ireland is to take part in the annual pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick for the first time. Most Rev Charles Brown (52) will undertake the climb this Sunday, accompanied by the Archbishop of Tuam, Dr Michael Neary, who usually takes part in the annual climb and celebrates Mass in the chapel on the summit.
The decision to participate in the pilgrimage by the nuncio, who was appointed in January, is in keeping with his stated ambition to “get to know more about Ireland”. He was born in Manhattan in 1960 and much of his ministry has been spent in the United States. He has worked at the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith since 1994.
The pilgrimage is traditionally held on the last Sunday in July.