This October, for the first time, the sacred relics of 7th-century Irish martyr Saint Kilian will return to his home county of Cavan from Würzburg, Germany.

In collaboration with the Diocese of Kilmore, the Parish of Mullagh, and Cavan County Council, this historic pilgrimage will mark the visit of Saint Kilian’s relics, along with those of his fellow martyrs, Saints Totnan and Kolonat. The relics, traditionally housed in the Altar of Würzburg Cathedral, will be brought to Cavan for five days, from October 2nd to 6th. These relics, consisting of three skulls inlaid with precious stones, encased in glass, will be leaving Germany for the first time.

During their visit, several religious ceremonies will take place in Saint Kilian’s Church, Mullagh, and the Cathedral of Saints Patrick and Felim in Cavan Town. A full schedule of events will be announced soon.

Bishop Martin Hayes, expressing his anticipation, stated, “We look forward to receiving the relics of Saint Kilian, who left Mullagh fourteen centuries ago. Alongside parishioners, I am eager to welcome Bishop Franz Jung of the Diocese of Würzburg, who will lead a German pilgrimage. This visit represents a significant milestone, strengthening the faith and friendship between our communities.”

This event follows more than a decade of effort to secure permission to bring the relics to Ireland and signifies a momentous occasion for Christian faithful in both Germany and Ireland.