Archbishop Michael Neary will lead the annual Croagh Patrick pilgrimage this Sunday.

On Saturday evening, Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass in St Mary's Church, Westport at 6.30pm to mark the official start of this year's pilgrimage.

On Reek Sunday, Mass will be celebrated on Croagh Patrick every hour from 8am to 2pm.

Confessions will also be available on the summit from 7.30am to 2pm.

Those making the climb this weekend are advised to come prepared - with wet gear, sun screen, appropriate footwear, water and snacks.

Keelin Moran of the Westport Order of Malta says it's very important for people climbing the Reek this weekend, or any time of the year, to be prepared for the challenge.

Archbishop Michael Neary will lead the annual Croagh Patrick pilgrimage tomorrow (Sunday).

Later this evening ( Sat), Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass in St Mary's Church, Westport at 6.30pm to mark the official start of this year's pilgrimage.

On Reek Sunday, Mass will be celebrated on Croagh Patrick every hour from 8am to 2pm.

The Bishop of Killaloe Fintan Monahan will celebrate the 9am Mass, and Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass at 11am.

Confessions will also be available on the summit from 7.30am to 2pm.

Those making the climb this weekend are advised to come prepared - with wet gear, sun screen, appropriate footwear, water and snacks.

Archbishop Michael Neary, the Archbishop of Tuam, has announced the following diocesan appointments and retirements:

Fr Paddy Gilligan, PP of Cong is to retire

Fr. Patrick Mullins, PP of Cummer is to retire

Fr. Enda Howley, CC of Monivea is to retire

Fr. Martin O’Connor, PP of Kilvine to be a member of the Cathedral Chapter

Fr. Billy Reilly SP An Cnoc, to be a member of the Cathedral Chapter

Fr. Ciarán Blake, returning from sabbatical leave to be PP of Cummer

Fr. Declan Carroll, PP of Parke/Keelogues, returning from sabbatical leave to be PP of Cong

Fr. Peter Suttle, to continue as Administrator of Parke/Keelogues

Fr. Karl Burns, PP of Mountbellew to be, in addition, PP of Menlough.  The priests of Athenry will share responsibility for the pastoral and sacramental care in the parish of Menlough

Fr. Hughie Loftus An Cheathrú Rua on sabbatical leave for one year

Fr. Clement McManus, to be Administrator of An Cheathrú Rua for one year

Fr. Angelo Joy, Administrator of Kilconly, has been recalled to his Order

Fr. Anthaiah Pudota, Knock Shrine, to be Administrator of Kilconly