“At times we are burdened and overwhelmed by the problems of the present moment and lose all sense of perspective, of the fact that we are on a journey,” said Archbishop Neary.

"For the safety of our parishioners, pilgrims, visitors, staff, volunteers and priests, Knock Shrine has taken the unprecedented and heart-breaking decision to close the Shrine and grounds for the 15th August only,” said Father Richard Gibbons, Rector, Knock.

“Our crowds are holding up well. We get 500 to 600 a night,” - John Mooney, Secretary, Ladywell Committee.

Oklahoma City rally seeks to overpower darkness with light and “to stand against evil.”

On the Feast of the Assumption, Pontiff calls attention to women "forced to surrender in both body and spirit to the avarice of men".

Though their numbers are smaller today, Irish religious still make “an immense contribution” to Ireland and the world by living their particular apostolates and charisms.

Parishes across Ireland urged to ring their bells for up to fifteen minutes and express solidarity with Christians suffering in the Middle East.

15,000 pilgrims in Knock for Feast of the Assumption and the Consecration of Ireland.