Large parts of the route will be mapped in 2019 and a smartphone app will be launched in mid 2019 that will allow pilgrims to negotiate the pilgrim trail.

“The effects of poverty don’t stop just because it’s Christmas – they endure throughout the year.” 

The route of the walk covers many counties in Ireland, north and south.

The sixth century saint is remembered as one of the greatest of the Irish missionary monks and revered across parts of Europe.

Bell is part of the 1,400th anniversary celebrations of St Columbanus as well as the centenary celebrations of the Knights of St Columbanus.