Group Bookings Available

Tel. (094) 93 88100
Email. stjohns@knockshrine.ie

Support Programmes

St. John’s Welcome Centre

St. John’s Welcome Centre, nestled in the peaceful surroundings of Knock Shrine, Co. Mayo, has been a sanctuary of care and hospitality for pilgrims since 1977. Founded by Fr. James Horan, the Centre was established to support large groups of pilgrims making their sacred journey to Knock.

For nearly 40 years, the Daughters’ of Charity lovingly guided its mission, embodying compassion and service. In 2014, following the retirement of Sr. Caitriona, leadership passed to a lay Department Head appointed by Fr. Richard Gibbons, Rector of Knock Shrine and Chairperson of the St, John’s Centre Committee. Under his visionary guidance and the dedication of the Team, St. John’s continues to offer a warm welcome and unwavering support to all who visit.



Opening Hours 2025

APRIL TO OCTOBER

Monday to Sunday

9am – 5pm

 

NOVEMBER TO MARCH

Monday to Friday

9am – 5pm

 

Saturday

10am – 4pm

Closed for Holy Mass from 12pm – 12:45pm and 3pm – 3:45pm

 

Sunday

1pm – 3pm

A Meeting Place at Knock Shrine

St. John’s Welcome Centre is the perfect gathering place for pilgrims, centrally located within the peaceful grounds of Knock Shrine. Designed with comfort and community in mind, the Centre features a spacious recreational area where visitors can rest, relax, and soak in the serenity that surrounds them.

Light refreshments are available daily, with freshly made scones and sandwiches served on weekends. Please note that while weekday group bookings are welcome—with advance notice recommended to ensure sufficient seating—we operate on a first come, first served basis at weekends and cannot accommodate reservations during those times.

Facilities for Conferences, Workshops and Group Meetings

St. John’s Welcome Centre features a spacious, well-appointed recreational hall—an ideal venue for large conferences, workshops, or group gatherings. The hall is fully equipped with an overhead projector, integrated sound system, and a small stage area, offering a professional setting for a wide range of events. Advance booking is essential.

 

Seating and table arrangements can be customised to suit your group’s specific needs. In addition to the main hall, the Centre also offers three private meeting rooms, perfect for smaller gatherings, workshops, or confidential meetings.

 

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, and light refreshments can be arranged upon request to enhance your event or meeting experience.

For enquiries or bookings, please contact us at (094) 93 88100 or email stjohns@knockshrine.ie.

 

Mobility Assistance

At St. John’s Welcome Centre, we are committed to ensuring that all pilgrims enjoy a comfortable and accessible experience during their visit to Knock Shrine.

 

We provide 15 designated disabled parking spaces conveniently located just outside the Centre. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are also available on-site for your convenience.

 

For those who require mobility support, a limited number of wheelchairs are available for loan. These can be requested on the day of your visit—please note, availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

To further support our visitors, a complimentary shuttle service operates daily across Knock Shrine, assisting pilgrims with limited mobility or difficulty walking. The shuttle is available upon request—simply speak with a member of staff or visit any Shrine office for assistance.

First Aid Facilities

St. John’s Welcome Centre is equipped with a dedicated First Aid Room, offering a safe and comfortable space for any pilgrim who may feel unwell during their visit. The room features a fully equipped hospital bed to ensure rest and proper care when needed.

 

For visitors with additional mobility needs, a full patient hoist is also available, providing essential support and comfort in times of need.

 

Our staff are always on hand to assist and ensure the well-being of all who come through our doors.

Golden Years Day Care at St. John’s Welcome Centre

At the heart of our local community, St. John’s Welcome Centre offers a warm and inviting space where seniors can come together in friendship and support. Our Golden Years Day Care programme, held every Tuesday and Wednesday, is a place of welcome, laughter, and meaningful connection.

Whether you live alone or simply enjoy a bit of company, Golden Years Day Care is a wonderful way to spend time in a safe, sociable, and enriching environment. The programme is ideally suited to older adults, especially those with mild mobility challenges. While we do not have medical or nursing staff on-site, our facilities and team provide thoughtful assistance throughout the day.

 

What to Expect:

  • Transport is available via our mini-bus service for those who need help getting to and from the Centre. Spaces are limited.
  • The day begins at approximately 10:30 am with a warm welcome, tea and homemade scones, and plenty of time for conversation.
  • We offer Arts & Crafts sessions.
  • At 12 noon, Holy Mass is celebrated in the Centre.
  • A freshly prepared three-course lunch is served at 1:00 pm, including homemade soup, a hearty main course, and a delicious dessert.
  • The afternoon continues with a range of enjoyable activities such as:
    • Gentle exercise sessions
    • Music, singing, dancing and poetry readings. We are privileged to live music at each session.
    • Bingo.

The day concludes at approximately 3:15 pm with a cup of tea, leaving our guests uplifted and looking forward to their next visit.

Our regular attendees often tell us how much they value their time at Day Care—and we are thrilled to offer that same experience to even more members of our community.

For more information or to register your interest, please contact us at 094 93 88100, extension 136. We look forward to welcoming you!

 

Charity Number : CHY 17632.

Knock Shrine

Knock Shrine
Ireland's International
Eucharistic and Marian Shrine,
Knock, Claremorris, Co. Mayo,
F12 Y226, Ireland

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