Our long-awaited Jubilee Year pilgrimage has begun! With hearts full of anticipation, our diocesan group set out in the early hours of the morning, departing from two airports—Heathrow for those in the south and Birmingham International for our northern pilgrims. Despite the early start, there was a tangible sense of excitement and joy as we embarked on this sacred journey as ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ to the Eternal City.
Upon arriving in Rome, we made our way to Hotel Lancelot, a charming place nestled near the Colosseum, which would be our home for the days ahead. After settling in and enjoying a well-earned lunch, we wasted no time in beginning our spiritual itinerary.
Our first destination was the Pontifical Irish College, where we gathered to celebrate Mass. It was a fitting beginning to our pilgrimage, grounding us in prayer and unity as we reflected on the theme of hope that guides us throughout this holy year. The rich history of the College, which has served as a place of formation and faith for Irish seminarians in Rome since 1628, added a special significance to our liturgy.
From there, we journeyed deeper into the city’s sacred past with a visit to the medieval chapel of San Silvestro, a hidden gem filled with centuries of devotion. This intimate space provided a quiet moment of reflection before we continued to the nearby Basilica of San Clemente. Descending into the 12th-century level of the basilica, we were transported back through time, walking among the very stones that have witnessed centuries of Christian faith. The layers of history beneath the basilica reminded us of the firm foundation upon which our faith stands, a testament to the enduring hope that has sustained the Church through the ages.
As evening approached, some of our pilgrims chose to partake in a truly beautiful experience—sung Vespers with the Augustinian Sisters at the Basilica of Santi Quattro Coronati. The hauntingly beautiful Gregorian chant, echoing through the ancient walls of the monastery, was a powerful and peaceful conclusion to our first full day in Rome.
With grateful hearts and weary feet, we returned to our hotel, ready to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. Our first day in the Eternal City has already deepened our faith and set the tone for the days to come. We continue forward as Pilgrims of Hope, eager to discover the graces that this pilgrimage will bring.
Stay tuned for more reflections as we walk in the footsteps of saints, embracing the blessings of this Jubilee Year in the heart of the Church.
View the pictures from day one here
Listen to Bishop David’s homily from our first Mass at the Pontifical Irish College here
