Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Eternal City

Bishop Deenihan will lead pilgrims from across the Diocese of Meath to Rome this week on the Diocesan Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope.

During the pilgrimage, pilgrims will visit the Vatican City and Rome’s most important basilicas and religious sites. The pilgrims will visit the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the four major papal basilicas and one of the Seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome. The largest Marian church in Rome, it is regarded as the first Marian sanctuary in the Western world and the mother of all sanctuaries. They will visit the tomb of Pope Francis before celebrating Mass in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

Pilgrims will also visit the Catacombs of San Sebastian and celebrate Mass there before visiting the Major Papal Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, a revered pilgrimage site honouring the Apostle Paul. On foot, the pilgrims will visit the Basilica of San Clemente, a remarkable layered church offering a fascinating journey through centuries of Roman and Christian history as well as the iconic Colosseum, San Pietro in Vincoli, the Roman Forum, and the Basilica of St John Lateran.

On the Wednesday, pilgrims will participate in the weekly Papal Audience. They will join together for the Jubilee Procession through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, finishing at the Altar of the Chair. Their pilgrimage will include a visit to the crypt and grottoes.

They will also visit Assisi, the birthplace of Saint Francis, where they will discover the main sights of this wonderful medieval city, including the Basilica of Saint Francis, the Basilica of St. Clare, the tomb of Carlo Acutis, and the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli.

Pilgrims will also visit the Basilica of St. Cecilia in Trastevere, a church rich in history and devotion, dedicated to the patron saint of music. We then continue to the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome, renowned for its stunning mosaics and peaceful atmosphere. They will also visit the Basilica of San Pietro in Montorio, beautifully perched on the Janiculum Hill, offering spectacular views over the city.

The diocesan pilgrimage will conclude with Mass in the chapel of the Pontifical Irish College.

Parishioners across the diocese are encourage to remember our fellow pilgrims in prayer as they bring our intentions to the tombs of the martyrs and saints.

A Pilgrim's Prayer

As Pilgrims of Hope in the Jubilee Year 2025
may we walk with Faith, Hope, and Love.
Illuminate our path,
inspire our hearts
and strengthen our resolve to
spread your compassion and kindness.
Help us to take each step
as we journey towards a brighter tomorrow.
Christ be with us. Amen.