FOR those not old enough to remember the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979, an indication of just what to expect when Pope Francis visits Ireland in August is clearly illustrated in this wonderful collection of images captured by Killarney photographer, Konrad Paprocki.
He had access all areas privilege in his native Poland for the pontiff’s visit for World Youth Day in August 2016.
Eagle-eyed Konrad snapped up a series of super shots that really highlight the magic of the open air ceremonies attended by tens of thousands of pilgrims.
He was by the pope’s side in Krakow and his impressive collection includes close-up shots of Pope Francis arriving in the popemobile, meeting and greeting the faithful, celebrating Mass and addressing the packed congregation.
Many of the pilgrims that travelled from throughout the world were also pictured by Konrad as they enjoyed the celebrations.
35 young people from Kerry, representing several parishes, were part of that diocesan pilgrimage to the World Youth Day, taking part in the festival of prayer throughout the city as well as participating in catechesis workshops, liturgies, concerts and other activities.
A conservative estimate of two million people attended the ceremonies with many making the eight-mile journey to and from the site on foot as public transport was at capacity.
Although the crowd is not generally expected to be as large as the 1979 visit – although that could change as excitement mounts – there are likely to be similar scenes when Pope Francis pays his first official visit to Ireland for the ninth World Meeting of Families which will take place in Dublin from 21–26 August.
Thousands of people are expected to travel from the Diocese of Kerry and, already, a number of local coach companies have released details of planned trips to and from the capital for the two-day gathering.
The Irish Bishops, including Ray Browne of Kerry, welcomed confirmation of the visit which was made during the pope’s General Audience in Rome.
In a statement the bishops said: “We are deeply honoured that Pope Francis will come to our country to participate in this universal Church celebration of faith and joy, as well as of the contemporary challenges which face families”.
Pope Francis, who is 81 years of age, will arrive Saturday, 25 August, and will take part in the Festival of Families in Croke Park. The next day he will be the chief celebrant at Mass in the Phoenix Park and that liturgy will bring the World Meeting of Families to a conclusion.
Photographs Konrad Paprocki. www.kpaprocki.com. Click on individual images to enlarge
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