Pope Francis' programme for Apostolic Visit to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families

Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families begins on Saturday morning, 25 August, when he departs from Rome and arrives in Dublin at 10:30.

Official Welcome and Visit with Civil Authorities

The official welcome ceremony will take place at the Presidential Residence in Áras an Uachtaráin at 11:15, followed by a courtesy visit to the President. At Dublin Castle, Pope Francis will meet with Civil Authorities and members of the Diplomatic Corp at 12:10.

Visit to the Cathedral and Homeless Centre

In the early afternoon, Pope Francis will visit Saint Mary’s Pro-Cathedral and greet those gathered. He will then go to the Capuchin Fathers’ Reception Centre and will visit a number of homeless families in private.

Festival of Families

The Holy Father will conclude his day with the Festival of Families at Croke Park Stadium set to begin at 7:30.

Visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Knock

On Sunday, Pope Francis will travel to Knock to visit to the Shrine and the recitation of the Angelus.

Holy Mass in Phoenix Park and meeting with Bishops

After returning to Dublin, Pope Francis will preside over an afternoon Liturgy at Phoenix Park after which a meeting with the Bishops of Ireland will take place in a convent of Dominican Sisters.

Departure

After a farewell ceremony at 6:30 in the evening, Pope Francis will depart for Rome. He is expected to touch down at Rome’s Ciampino’s airport at 11pm.