The Galway Solemn Novena made its return this week for the first time since Covid put the annual event on hold for two years.

Thousands have already attended, with many more expected at the 39th annual Novena ahead of its closing on Tuesday next, March 14.

In addition to three sessions daily from Monday to Saturday and four on Sunday, a programme of speakers has been lined up under the theme of ‘Faith in challenging times’.

Former professional soccer player, Keith Fahey, who played in both the English Premier League and League of Ireland, and holds 16 caps for Ireland in central midfield and on the wing, will speak today (Thursday) on how he came to faith “through a process of struggle and surrender”.

Among those to speak so far was Redemptorist priest, Brendan O’Callaghan who has worked in South America as well as in Ireland, and was until recently based in Esker, County Galway.

Bishop of Clonfert and Galway, Michael Duignan will speak about ‘sharing faith as church’ on Sunday.

Ahead of this, Bishop Duignan said the Novena’s return as an in-person event was welcome, and an important moment for what has long been “a real celebration for the faith community in Galway”.

“It’s the first in-person Novena after Covid and there’s a really good line up of speakers from all walks of life and they should be very interesting.

“I know a huge amount of work has gone into it by the Cathedral Parish and I’m looking forward to it,” said Bishop Duignan.

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