Veritas et Lux

Our Lady of Knock was a set of apparitions that took place in 1879, is the small village of Knock, County Mayo, Ireland. This is one of the more unique Marian apparitions since it was viewed by a group of villagers rather than a single visionary.

The late 19th century was a time of economic hardship and social upheaval in Ireland, marked by poverty, famine, and political unrest. Around 8:00 PM on August 21, 1879, several villagers were passing by the parish when they noticed something unusual. Two women, Mary McLoughlin and Mary Beirne were the first to report seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist. They also saw a lamb on an altar before the cross.

These figures were life-sized and were described as being radiant. The Virgin Mary was wearing a white robe and a crown. St. Joseph stood to her right with his head bowed in reverence. St. John the Evangelist stood to her left, holding a book. The lamb represents Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, sacrificed for the salvation of humanity.

Interestingly, the apparitions never spoke. The apparition was entirely silent, adding to its mysterious nature. Fifteen official witnesses, ranging in age from young children to elderly adults, were interviewed by Archbishop John MacEvilly, and their testimonies confirmed the details of the apparition.

Similar to many other Marian apparitions, Mary appeared to the people of Knock during a time of hardship and suffering, offering a silent message of hope and comfort to the Irish people. We are reminded of the power of faith, importance of prayer, and the enduring presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary in our lives who is there to intercede for us.