In pictures: Crowds turn out for annual May procession in Cork village

The annual May procession at Glanmire took place last weekend and drew a large crowd in its walk from St Joseph’s Church to the Lourdes Grotto.

The ceremony at the grotto included the recitation of the rosary, benediction of the blessed sacrament and a homily delivered this year by Father Emmanuel Ihomon, who came to Glanmire in May of last year from Nigeria and is now active in the family of parishes.

John Egan of the organising committee told The Echo that the day “went off without a hitch”. He said: “We were so lucky with the weather, very light rain and a warm dry spell. Fr Pat Fogarty PP was master of ceremonies and Fr Emmanuel from Nigeria gave a very encouraging talk about Our Lady.

“We had a very good turnout, with many new parishioners who have located to Glanmire enjoying the ceremony for their first time.”

Margaret Fragley led the choir with St Joseph’s and St Michael’s choirs coming together for the first time, and Carrigaline pipe band kept spirits high.

St John’s Ambulance were in attendance, as well as local gardaí. 

Now in its 77th year, the procession continues a cherished local tradition that began in 1949 with the opening of the grotto and the first May procession held that same year.

Since then, the first Sunday in May is the occasion of a procession in Glanmire, an expression of faith and devotion to Our Lady.

Organisers said that this year’s event was marked by the absence of a much-loved committee member, Michael Quinlan, who has gone to his eternal reward since the last gathering, but added that his contribution to the procession over many years is fondly remembered.