Bishop Bambera Led Scranton Pilgrims to Ireland
A group of over 50 pilgrims traveled to North Mayo to celebrate the sister-city connection between Ballina and Scranton.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Catholicism
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Bishop Joseph Bambera and a group of more than 50 pilgrims from Scranton arrived in North Mayo on September 21, 2026. The visit honored the long-standing sister-city relationship between Ballina and the Pennsylvania city.
Why it matters
This pilgrimage strengthens the cultural and religious ties between Scranton and Ballina, which have been formal sister cities since 1990. Such exchanges foster deeper community connections and mutual recognition of shared heritage.
The visiting group consisted of more than 50 pilgrims. The sister-city relationship between Scranton and Ballina was officially established in 1990.
The players
Bishop Joseph Bambera
He is the Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton who led the delegation to Ireland.
Father Patrick Peyton
He was a famous Irish-born priest born in 1909 whose legacy is honored at the center in Attymass.
The details
The group traveled from Dublin Airport to visit the Father Peyton Centre in Attymass and the Clarke Museum of Irish History in Ballina. Their journey also included stops at the Knock Shrine, Kylemore Abbey, and Galway to mark the bond between the two regions.
Timeline
1990: Ballina and Scranton officially became sister cities.
September 21, 2026: Bishop Bambera and the pilgrimage group arrived in North Mayo.
September 22, 2026, 10am: Bishop Bambera concelebrated Mass at St Muredach's Cathedral.
Roadmap
This pilgrimage follows the pattern set by the 1990 Scranton-Ballina sister city agreement to maintain active ties. Such visits demonstrate how historical regional bonds can lead to sustained, long-term international collaboration.
Scranton residents interested in the sister-city partnership may see increased opportunities for cultural exchange and travel in the future. The successful visit suggests a continued commitment to maintaining these international links.
The takeaway
Maintaining sister-city relationships requires active, ongoing efforts from both local leaders and the general public. Residents can support these connections by participating in future exchange programs or local events dedicated to Irish heritage.
Further reading
Discover more about local religious history and community events on the Catholicism page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Mayo News.
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