03/05/2026
We assisted with the Glen of Aherlow Pilgrims Holistic Walk this morning. We started at Clonbeg Church, Glen of Aherlow where Liz Browne gave us a very informative talk on the history of this beautiful Church. At St. Sedna's Holy Well the Rev Mike Ó Meara gave us a blessing to protect us on our way and a copy of the Pilgrims prayer. We were gifted holy water, a small tangible blessing that set the tone for the day. In return we scattered bird seed as an offering back to nature, a simple gesture that felt right. Giving back something and making that connection with mother earth. We paused at the towering Statue of Christ the King with it's hand raised.
It felt like a quiet guardian over the whole valley, a symbol of protection for hikers, farmers and pilgrims who passed through here for generations.
Our next stop was the Mass Rock from Pe**al times. Denny passed around a replica Pe**al cross made from old bog oak. Liz gave a talk on hidden history of St. Benehead the local friar who had a Church near bye.
Moving on to the Shrough Dolmen a center of excellence from our Celtic past. The stones were worn smooth surrounded by flora, fauna and wild grasses that have reclaimed the space over the centuries. We scattered some more bird seed for the wild birds who entertained us with a chorus of songs and chirping.
After out snack break it was all down hill to the giants grave. A burial spot of some ancient Celtic queen or chieftain. 10 klm done and another 3.5klm left to reach Mooreabbey, the ancient site of the old Franciscan Friary. As we arrived we were "greeted" by St. Gobnait (Natasha) searching for seven white deer, she had seen in a dream, a place where she could build her monastery. She was accompanied by the Gobá Saor, a craftsman from ancient mythology. Fr. Breen gave a wonderful closing ceremony which included a moment to reflect on our journey through nature and the life of early Christians. Out thanks to Tipperary Civil Defence for providing back up and to Hillary and friends for providing refreshments for us at Galbally community hall. We have all agreed to meet up soon again to walk the famine path at Knockfierna.