Over 2,000 people are expected to take part in the first ever Worldwide Marian Procession in Derry on Saturday, June 13. The event honours the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

The procession will depart from St. Mary’s Chapel in Creggan following a World Holy Mass at noon. Participants will walk approximately 1.5 miles through the Bogside and Brandywell, stopping at the Grotto of Our Lady to pray the Rosary, before finishing at Celtic Park GAA Stadium with Benediction.

Organisers, including the YouTube channel Guardians of the Faith, have set a dress code. Men and boys are to wear white shirts with blue ties, while women and girls are asked to wear blue and cover their heads with mantels. This is described as a sign of unity for what they call Mary’s Blue Army.

Bishop of Derry Donal McKeown has endorsed the event and encouraged attendance. The weekend programme begins on Friday with a 24-hour Adoration starting at 10.30am, continuing until Saturday morning.

Also on Saturday, the Men’s and Women’s Rosary of Ireland will gather in Guildhall Square from 10.30am to 11.15am to pray the Rosary before the Mass.

Organisers said clergy and prayer groups from across Ireland and worldwide have pledged support, and there will be international media coverage. Attendees are advised to arrive early, follow directions from stewards, and check the official website for final updates.