Archbishop Michael Neary described the artwork and said: “It is difficult to find a language which would capture the beauty and magnificence of what we behold and yet isn’t it just a shadow of the reality which those 15 people looked upon on that August evening at the gable end a few yards away.”

“The event is targeted not only at those who enjoy exploring Ireland’s ancient tracks, but also the growing numbers seeking to escape the daily grind of life and take time out to reflect and meditate a little while enjoying the outdoors” – John G. O’Dwyer.

"We have a product but we need a big marketing effort by the likes of Fáilte Ireland to really get this off the ground.”

A special Mass commemorating the Abbey's 800-year history has been commissioned from composer Fr Liam Lawton as part of the octocentenary celebrations.