BBC series on Lough Derg pilgrimage. Oilithreacht

For the past three weeks BBC Northern Ireland have been showing 30 minute episodes of a documentary series about the very challenging Lough Derg pilgrimage. A very different interpretation of "pilgrimage" from the Caminos where the focus is largely on the journey and so much is left to the individual's personal choice. In many ways the Lough Derg pilgrimage is much closer to the Hajj in spirit and practice. I have found it interesting to watch and to reflect on the points of difference and similarity and to ponder what it is about an experience that defines it as a pilgrimage. All three episodes are now available on the BBC iPlayer service though the first will expire in 15 days time with the others to do likewise later. Quite a contrast with the BBC celebrity series on the Camino Frances and the Via Francigena!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0003nvv/oilithreacht-series-1-1-oilithreacht