Galway Cathedral’s 41st Novena: Finding Love and Hope in Life’s Challenges
In the recent storm, as winds howled and rain battered the streets, many sought shelter - just as we do in life’s trials. When challenges come, it’s easy to feel lost in the chaos, searching for something solid to hold onto. Galway Cathedral’s 41st Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help offers just that - a moment to pause, to find refuge, and to rediscover hope. Running from Monday, 17th February, to Tuesday, 25th February 2025, this year’s theme, “Where Love Is, Hope Is Born,” invites everyone to come as they are and explore the transformative power of love and faith.
Fr John Gerard Acton speaks to those who may feel unsure or searching: “This Novena is for everyone - especially anyone who feels lost, stuck, or in need of clarity. It’s not about having all the answers - it’s about making space to listen, to pray, and to discover how love and hope can bring light, even in the hardest times.”
The nine-day event brings together a rich and diverse lineup of speakers, each offering a unique perspective on love, faith, and resilience. On the opening day, Br Richard Hendrick, a Capuchin Franciscan friar, will deliver a reflection titled “Mercy is the Force that Reawakens Us to New Life,” exploring the power of compassion to spark healing and renewal. Fr Brendan Callanan will follow on the second day with “Finding God in Every Story,” a reflection on recognising the divine presence in the ordinary and often overlooked moments of daily life.
Colm Flynn, a Vatican correspondent and journalist, will address the congregation on the third day to share stories of resilience and faith from around the world in his talk, “Reporting Hope: A Broadcaster’s Perspective on Faith in Action.” On the fourth day, Maura Murphy will offer an inspiring message for younger generations with her talk, “The Young are Called to Dream Great Things,” encouraging young people to embrace their potential and aspirations.
The fifth day focuses on family life, as Catherine Larkin presents “The Family is the First and Most Important School of Love,” highlighting the vital role of love within the family as a foundation for facing life’s challenges. Fr Richard Gibbons, Rector of Knock Shrine, will reflect on the quiet but powerful presence of Mary in “Our Lady of Knock: A Mother’s Silent Gift of Hope” on the sixth day.
Bishop Michael Duignan will speak on the seventh day, offering an uplifting reflection titled “Jubilee 2025: Walking Forward in Hope,” encouraging attendees to face the future with courage and faith. On the eighth day, Olive Foley, widow of rugby legend Anthony Foley, will deliver a deeply moving talk, “Grief: The Price of Love,” sharing her personal journey of finding strength through faith and love in the face of loss.
The Novena will conclude with Michelle Ward’s reflection, “Clinging to Mary: A Journey from Sadness to Faith.” Her talk serves as a reminder of the comfort and guidance Mary offers during life’s most challenging times.
A Guided Holy Hour by candlelight takes place weeknights from 8:30pm to 9:30pm, providing a sacred space for quiet prayer and reflection in the presence of the Eucharist. Confession is available daily, except on Sundays.
Masses are celebrated daily at 11:00am, 1:10pm, and 7:30pm. On Sunday, Masses are at 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm, and 6:00pm.
For the full schedule and speaker details, visit www.galwaycathedral.ie.
