Over half a million people are expected in Knock County Mayo for the visit of Pope John Paul II.
The Mayo village was celebrating as it was confirmed that Pope John Paul II would visit Knock as part of his three day visit to Ireland.
Knock is a village overjoyed today at the news that the Pope is to visit here during his three day Irish tour.
Monsignor James Horan Parish Priest of Knock, says that the village has been preparing for years in the event that a visit might happen. Knock has a new church, a new hospital, a rest and care unit, as well as a reconstructed shrine and acres of landscaping which will allow the village cater for the visiting masses.
When the Holy Father comes, he'll be coming on a mission of peace and reconciliation.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 22 July 1979. The reporter is Jim Fahy.
