Hundreds of young adults from around the country are gathering in Knock, Co Mayo, for a day of events to mark the Catholic Church's Jubilee Year of Hope.
The event coincides with the opening of a new facility at the Marian Shrine, which has been specially designed to cater for young pilgrims.
A €1.5 million investment has led to the construction of ten bespoke 'eco pods', which can accommodate those visiting the area.
It will be made available exclusively for school and young adult retreats, as part of an ongoing effort to ensure the Church is relevant and accessible to future generations.
The Youth Village has been designed to blend in with the surroundings, with each of the pods using sustainable energy and offering a range of smart technology facilities.
Today’s meeting features a number of discussions on the relevance of faith to those aged between 18 and 30.
It has been organised to facilitate greater engagement and discussion among this age cohort.
As well as hearing from a number of speakers, participants will attend panel discussions and prayer services during the day.
Catholic Bishop of Cork and Ross Fintan Gavin said the event aimed to provide a space for young people to explore their faith and find hope in a world where many were searching for purpose and belonging.
The 'Dare to Hope' gathering today comes ahead of of an international Jubilee celebration in Rome next month, which is expected to draw thousands of people to the city for the culmination of the Catholic year of celebration.
