Saturday 23rd of May was a big day in the OLA and SMA calendar. The 46th SMA Pilgrimage to Knock took place and it was also the Feast of Our Lady of Apostles.Â
SMA’s, OLA Sisters, along with supporters and friends, gathered at Knock Shrine for an occasion that, as usual, marked the end of the annual Novena in honour of Our Lady. This year the Pilgrimage was also special as it was part of the 2026 triple Jubilee Celebrations marking:
– the 200th anniversary of the founder of the OLA Congregation, Fr Augustine Planque SMA.
– the 170th Anniversary 
of the SMA.
– the 150th anniversary of the founding of the OLA. Â
Here, through photographs (click on photos to enlarge) and videos we give a flavour of our day in Knock where the traditional rites of the Pilgrimage, including Stations of the Cross, Rosary, Mass and Novena Prayers were observed.  The Mass concelebrated by thirty-five priests, was led by Fr Paddy O’Rouke SMA, Vice Provincial and the homily was delivered by Fr John Kilcoyne SMA, Provincial Councillor.  Music, provided by the Choir of Castlebar Parish greatly enhanced the liturgy as did the Offertory Procession of the Loreto House Spiritual Formation 
Group. This added a vibrant and much appreciated African touch to the celebration. Our thanks to all who attended and to those who helped organise and run events in Knock.
The first video is an address delivered by Sr Mary Crowley the OLA District Leader as symbols of the OLA Congregation’s missionary journey, were brought to the altar. CLICK HERE The second is the homily preached by Fr John Kilcoyne SMA, Provincial Councillor during the Mass. CLICK HERE
