By Sarah Mac Donald - 17 March, 2015
The Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal will host a special candlelit vigil on the Hill of Slane later today to commemorate St Patrick’s lighting of the Easter Fire.
Light the Fire! begins at 5pm and will be followed by Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael Smith of Meath.
After Mass, those gathered are invited to participate in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with music accompaniment led by the Franciscans of the Renewal.
In Dublin this morning, Úachtaráin na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins, will attend Mass in Irish with Archbishop Diarmuid Martin to celebrate Lá Fhéile Pádraig at 10am, in St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Dublin.
Music to celebrate the feastday of the national saint will be led by the Palestrina Choir. The celebration will include the Blessing of Shamrock.
Meanwhile, St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, which has turned green for the St Patrick’s Festival, is offering free entry to anyone named Patrick, Patricia, Padraig, Pat or Paddy today.
Those bearing the same name as the country’s patron saint can save €6pp provided they present ID.
