The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others. Ireland is well known for its volunteerism and it comes in various shapes and sizes. Travel to any county, small town or village and you will find such a group. Whether you wish to be involved in local sports, tidy towns, working with disabled groups or art groups you will have no problem in finding one to suit your needs. And Kilkenny is no different.
One such group is The Rise and Shine Trust formerly The Irish Pilgrimage Trust. The Kilkenny /Carlow section of the Trust is known as Group 174. For the last 50 years, members have been travelling to Lourdes. Each Easter the group selects people to travel with all expenses paid to enjoy the Lourdes experience. Those travelling can bask in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. Each year, millions worldwide visit the Grotto of Massabielle (Grotto of Apparitions) where in 1858, the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.
Volunteer led
Rise and Shine is an independent, self-funding, national, inclusive, and volunteer-led charity that provides supported pilgrimage holidays to guests with additional needs and respite to their families.
They strive to give guests and volunteers meaningful memories, the opportunity for personal growth, and an unforgettable life changing experience.
Group Leader for Kilkenny/Carlow is Jackie Cullen who has travelled with Group 174 for the past seven years. She explained that the volunteers are the core to success and praised their commitment to making people happy.
Jackie told The Kilkenny Observer that the week-long trip is so rewarding. “Make no mistake about it, but it is tough going. From the moment you set out it is all hands to the pump. However, the joy you receive from being involved and seeing others happy is just incredible.” Jackie, who has 26 years experience working as a special needs assistant, explained that the next trip will see Fr Dan Carroll from St John’s and Nurse Una O’Neill take the trip yet again. “We have a great team, and although the work can be tough, we also have time to relax and have fun,” said Jackie.
Dedication
Monsignor Dan Carroll, Vicar General of the Ossory Diocese, is the national trustee of the Rise & Shine Pilgrimage Trust. A native of Castlecomer, Monsignor Dan is currently the Team Leader in St John’s parish. Fr Dan has served with distinction in diverse roles throughout the diocese. His ministry has encompassed tenures in St Kieran’s College, Kilmacow, St Patrick’s, and Danesfort. Under his inspirational guidance, parishes have flourished as he has brought the love, compassion, and humanity of Jesus to the people. Not content with his parish duties, Fr Dan also acts as Spiritual Director to The School of the Holy Spirit and St Patrick’s School, Kells Road. In these roles, his affinity with students transcends normal interactions as he forms loving friendships and empathetic relationships. The adage “if you want something done, ask a busy person” certainly, in the case of Fr Dan, rings true.
Monsignor Dan told the Observer that all volunteers are completely dedicated. “We all believe in the importance and necessity of what we do,” said the St John’s based priest. Fr Dan also added that
you can help create a joyful, life-changing experience, not just for them, but for yourself too.
Volunteering with Rise & Shine is a rewarding way to share your time, compassion, and energy with young people who have additional needs. Each Easter, over 400 young people travel with the Trust to Lourdes, supported by an incredible team of volunteer carers.
Volunteering doesn’t just happen in Lourdes — they also host Friendship Weeks at their dedicated holiday home in Galway during the summer months. These are fun-filled, holiday-style weeks for young people with additional needs, supported by volunteers in a warm, family-style setting. Whether helping with activities, meals, or simply being a friendly face, volunteers play a vital role in creating a safe and joyful environment. It’s a wonderful way to get involved closer to home, build lasting relationships, and experience the spirit of Rise & Shine in action.
Jackie Cullen spoke of the expenses involved and the need for fundraising. “It is important to point out that all helpers pay their own way and that fundraising events are for those travelling with disabilities. Ms Cullen explained that volunteers travel as part of family-style groups, offering care, friendship, and fun throughout the week-long pilgrimage holiday. And what of qualifications?
“You don’t need special qualifications — just kindness, patience, and a willingness to be a team player,” replied Jackie. All volunteers receive training and are supported along the way.
A special concert to raise funds for the trip will take place in St John’s Church Kilkenny on December 7th and will feature Music Generation Kilkenny youth group, Mount Juliet International chamber choir, High Hopes, Pheonix, Martina Burke and Maura Rafter. Proceeds from the concert will be shared between Rise and Shine and Kilkenny Helping the Homeless.
