Tara to Slane for Bealach an tSolais

Sixty pilgrims took part in the annual Bealach an tSolais pilgrimage from the Hill of Tara to the Hill of Slane on Saturday, 29 August, walking 15 miles (24km) through the Meath countryside.

Led by Father Declan Hurley of Navan, this year’s pilgrimage focused on the Irish Synodal Pathway as the Church in Ireland prepares for a National Synodal Assembly in October. Father Declan invited participants to reflect throughout the journey on the question: ‘What is God asking of us?’ He encouraged pilgrims to allow the places and people encountered along the route to help them discern what God might be saying to the Church and to the wider community.

The pilgrimage began at the statue of Saint Patrick on the Hill of Tara, where the pilgrims invoked the saint’s protection and intercession before setting out along quiet country roads.

At the former Augustinian church on the Hill of Skryne, participants reflected on the example of the saints. The site once housed a reliquary of Saint Colmcille and is also close to the birthplace of Blessed Margaret Birmingham Ball, who was martyred for her Catholic faith.

Pilgrims were welcomed at the Church of the Assumption in Walterstown, and there they reflected on Mary’s “yes” to God’s will. Further along the route, parishioners at Yellow Furze provided hospitality. The pilgrims also viewed a stone carving of the Blessed Virgin Mary, concealed during penal times and rediscovered in more recent years, prompting reflection on the importance of protecting and passing on the gift of faith.

Crossing the River Boyne at Slane, the group reflected on legacies of pain and division in the country, communities and families, and on the Christian call to healing, peace and reconciliation.

Following Mass in Saint Patrick’s Church, Slane, celebrated with a welcome from Father Richard Matthews PP, the pilgrims continued to the Hill of Slane, where they reflected on the flame of faith received at Baptism.