This year, the Diocese of Cork and Ross invites you to take part in a truly historic moment:
the 100th anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession in Cork on Sunday 7th June

First held in 1926, the Eucharistic Procession was a wish amongst the people for unity, peace and reconciliation after the Civil War and the War of Independence. They asked Bishop Colahan to have a Eucharistic Procession, bringing Jesus in the Eucharist to the streets of our city. This is an opportunity to witness to our faith while being a part of a living tradition and the history of our city.

One hundred years on, we gather as a diocesan family to unite in prayer and thanksgiving, and to honour Jesus in the Eucharist. Gathering at 2:30pm at the Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne, the Procession will begin at 3pm and finish with benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Grand Parade.

As part of the 100 Hours for 100 Years celebrations at St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church in preparation for the 100th Anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession, we invite parishes, families, and friends to take part in special Holy Hours during our 100 hours of continuous Eucharistic Adoration.

These dedicated hours offer an opportunity to come before Jesus in the Eucharist in prayer. Whether you can stay for a few minutes or the full hour, your presence and prayers will be a blessing.

Holy Hours for Particular Intentions

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026

9.30am – 10.30am: Students sitting exams

(Coordinated by the Young Adult Mission Team)

 

7.00pm – 8.00pm: Vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood

(Coordinated by the Diocesan Vocations Team)

 

Thursday, June 4th, 2026 7.00pm – 8.00pm: Peace in Our World

(Coordinated by the Ballineaspig Faith in Action Group)

 

Friday, June 5th, 2026  7.00pm – 8.00pm: The Priests of the Diocese

(Coordinated by Carrigaline Parish)

 

In a world that is often busy and noisy, these Holy Hours provide a sacred space to pause, pray, and be renewed.

Together, let us mark this significant centenary milestone by spending time in the presence of Jesus and entrusting our hopes, challenges, and intentions to him.

Ss Peter and Paul’s Church was at full capacity for the 7am Mass on Sunday morning as runners, supporters and volunteers gathered for a special Mass ahead of the Cork City Marathon.
The Mass was offered for the repose of the soul of Ellen Cassidy, who died shortly after taking part in last year’s half marathon. Members of her family and friends were present for the Mass, alongside the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Fergal Dennehy.

Those at the Mass also had the opportunity to venerate the relics of St Carlo Acutis and receive a blessing with the relic before making their way to the marathon start line.

In his homily, Bishop Fintan reflected on the significance of the day and invoked God’s blessing on all those taking part in the event.

“This morning is very special as we gather for this Mass at the beginning of the Cork City Marathon and ask God’s blessing on the participants and the day ahead. Some will run for a personal goal, some for charity, some in memory of someone they love, and some simply to discover what they are capable of. It is very fitting that this Mass falls on Trinity Sunday. Today the Church reminds us that God is not distant or remote, but a communion of love.”

Schedule for the Visit of St Carlo Acutis' Relics to Cork

Saturday 30 May 2026

Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne, Cork

9am: Welcome Mass

10am: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

12:30pm: Talk by Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo:

Saint Carlo Acutis: Helping us Prepare for the 100 Anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession

12:50pm: Eucharistic Adoration

1:30pm Veneration of Relics and Prayer

5pm: Vigil Mass

6pm: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

8pm: Talk by Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo:

Saint Carlo Acutis: Helping us Prepare for the 100 Anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession

8:20pm Veneration of Relics and Prayer

10pm: Conclude veneration

Sunday 31 May 2026

Ss Peter and Paul's Church, Cork

7am: Mass to facilitate participants of Cork City Marathon (including a blessing with Relic)

8am: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

4pm: Talk by Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo:

Saint Carlo Acutis: Helping us Prepare for the 100 Anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession

4:20pm: Eucharistic Adoration

5pm: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

7pm: Mass Animated by Young Adults followed by hospitality

9pm: Talk by Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo:

Saint Carlo Acutis: Helping us Prepare for the 100 Anniversary of the Eucharistic Procession

10pm: Conclude veneration

Monday 1 June 2026

Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne, Cork

9am: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

12pm: Mass with Anointing of the Sick

2pm: Reserved time for Priests

Talk by Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo: Saint Carlo Acutis: An Encouragement for Diocesan Priests Today

3pm: Veneration of Relics and Prayer

5pm: Closing Mass of Thanksgiving

Please note there will be no further veneration of the Relics after this Mass

As part of the lead up to the Eucharistic Procession, the Relics of St. Carlo Acutis will visit the Diocese over the June Bank Holiday weekend
Friday 29th May to Monday 1st June
St. Carlo Acutis has inspired young people throughout the world through his deep devotion to the Eucharist. The visit of his relics offers a special opportunity to prepare spiritually for the Eucharistic Procession, helping us to deepen our appreciation and understanding of Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist.

The relics will travel to different locations across the diocese, allowing many people to participate in this significant and grace-filled occasion.

Timetable for the Visit of the Relics of St Carlo Acutis