A magical day on the Tóchar Phádraig path
Fr Frank Fahey took on the challenge of restoring the Tóchar in 1987.
Janine Hoban, Errew Community Committee and friends of Errew had a great day recently when walking the Tóchar Phádraig Pilgrim Path from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick.
The weather was kind to the group and Fr Frank Fahey welcomed the walkers to the Abbey and spoke about how this ancient journey might bring about a "change of heart" and "insight of mind" about ourselves or to any troubles we may have in life. He also encouraged us to “give thanks and have an attitude of gratitude”.
The 35km walk brings particpants on a cultural and historical journey through woodland, fields, bog land and across streams over many styles and footbridges before the long road trek to the foot of the Reek. Information boards along the way describe points and places of interest, ruins, famine stories and historical facts.
Aughagower village marks the half way point and the participants took a break for lunch and a visit to Scott’s shop, pub and bathroom! The Tóchar passes the Boheh Stone, or St. Patrick’s Chair, a national monument and one of the finest examples of Neolithic rock art in Ireland dating back to 3800BC. Fr Fahey said Mass at the Boheh rock and everyone took a stone with a painted cross as a reminder of the special day.
The final part of the Tóchar brings participants from the Mayo Mountain Rescue Centre to the shoulder of Croagh Patrick and down into Murrisk. Some walkers climbed to the top of the mountain but most were happy to head straight down for a much needed beverage in ‘Campbells’!
Fr Fahey welcomed everyone as they arrived down the mountain and they all received a certificate for completing the Tóchar Phádraig.
It was a most enjoyable day walking with friends, meeting new people, sharing stories and a great sense of achievement at the end.
A big thank you to the guides, Martin and Marie Summerville, and ‘sweeper’ Robbie McCarthy for ensuring all gates and styles were closed and no-one got left behind! Gracious thanks to the support drivers, committee member Padraig Thomas and Mary Quinn and to all the staff at Ballintubber Abbey.
Fr Fahey took on the challenge of restoring the Tóchar in 1987 and everyone felt so fortunate to have him with them on the day. He is a very special, inspirational priest.
Errew Community Committee raised €300 towards the completion of the Old School restoration project into a small community centre. Sincere thanks to the generous support from all the walkers - it is very much appreciated. Many who took part are considering taking on the challenge of completing the four other pilgrim paths of Ireland now!
