| Dawn Mass |
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Preparations had been underway weeks in advance. Signs were posted, an altar erected, hymns chosen, parking sorted, scones baked and water boiled. As it was the first such event there was no way of knowing what numbers might attend. We hoped that if the weather held and the message got out that up to 200 might make the early morning trip to Cong. We were provided us with a perfect morning - the full moon was gradually usurped by the rising sun which revealed the most stunning of lakeside settings. Bird song filled the silence and raised the soul. From very early, out of the darkness people began to appear. At first only a few, then a growing trickle until finally at around 6.20am the steady flow became a surge. When Mass began over 1000 people were present - and still they came! Kate Costello welcomed everyone on behalf of the DYC and introduced our celebrant, Fr Francis Mitchell from Westport. Our music was lead by members of the Balla folkgroup led by Tom Lyons. The candle ceremony and renewal of baptismal vows culminated with a blessing with water taken from the lake itself. At the end of Mass all were invited to join us for some light breakfast - tea, coffee, scones, muffins, with Easter eggs for the children. Our celebration concluded with the final hymn accompanied by rhythmic clapping from the whole congregation. We truly felt our souls had been raised, and our hearts had burnt within us. He is Risen! Our thanks to Fr. Colm Kilcoyne and the local Cong community who not only welcomed us with open arms but who provided the catering, the altar and looked after the parking. No mean feat when you are expecting 200 and over 1000 turn up. And thanks be to God for the wonderful morning which was sent to us. Photos courtesy of Fr. Stephen Farragher |
The Tuam Diocesan Youth Council hosted a Dawn Mass on the shores of Lough Corrib on Easter Sunday morning at 6.30am.