ROME EXPERIENCE

DAY 1: Walking in the Footsteps of Peter – A Pilgrimage Begins

Our pilgrimage to the heart of the Church begins with an early morning flight to Rome, the Eternal City. Upon arrival, we head straight to St. Peter’s Basilica, where we will cross the Holy Door, marking the start of our Jubilee journey. This symbolic act invites us to embrace God’s mercy and renewal in our lives.

We then gather for a time of reflection on the meaning of the Jubilee Year, contemplating the role of St. Peter, the rock upon which Christ built His Church.

A profound moment follows as we celebrate a private Mass within the Vatican, standing in the presence of centuries of faith. Afterward, we embark on a guided tour of the Vatican, marveling at the Vatican Museums, the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, and the treasures of the Basilica, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and the tomb of St. Peter himself.

The evening allows time for a relaxed walk, perhaps to Castel Sant’Angelo or along the Tiber River, as we take in the grandeur of the city at night.

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DAY 2: Into the Depths of Faith – Martyrs and Missionaries

Today, we travel back in time to the early Christian era as we descend into the Catacombs of San Callisto, where persecuted Christians once gathered in secret to celebrate the Eucharist. Walking through these ancient tunnels, we reflect on the courage and faith of the early martyrs who kept the flame of Christianity alive.

We then proceed to St. Paul Outside the Walls, a magnificent basilica housing the tomb of St. Paul, the great missionary of which we as MSSP find our main inspiration after Christ. As we pass through the Holy Door, we meditate on Paul’s words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

In the afternoon, we enjoy some personal time for shopping, allowing everyone to explore Rome at their own pace, whether by browsing the various stores at the centre of Rome, walking through Via del Corso, or enjoying a gelato at Piazza Navona.

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DAY 3: Faith in action – Living the Gospel

The morning begins at St. John Lateran, the Cathedral of Rome and the Pope’s official seat. We enter through the Holy Door, once again recognizing the call to spiritual renewal. Nearby, we climb the Scala Santa, the Holy Stairs that Jesus is said to have ascended on the day of His Passion.

Next, we visit Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the oldest Marian churches in the world, home to relics of Christ’s crib. Standing before the image of Our Lady “Salus Populi Romani”, we reflect on Mary’s presence in our journey of faith.

In the afternoon, we put our faith into action through a volunteering experience at the Caritas Soup Kitchen, serving the homeless and marginalized. This encounter challenges us to see the face of Christ in those we serve, reminding us that pilgrimage is not only about places, but about people.

After this moving experience, we dedicate time for socializing as a group, sharing our thoughts and experiences over a relaxed evening in Trastevere, a lively Roman district filled with small piazzas, street musicians, and an authentic Italian atmosphere.

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DAY 4: A Day in Assisi – Following the Footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare

Leaving the bustle of Rome behind, we journey to Assisi, a town suspended in time, filled with the peace and simplicity of St. Francis. Our first stop is the Eremo delle Carceri, a quiet sanctuary nestled in the mountains where Francis would retreat for solitude and prayer. The stillness invites us into our own time of silence and reflection.

From there, we visit San Damiano, the church where Francis first heard Christ’s call: “Rebuild my Church”. This small, sacred space reminds us of our own call to renewal and service.

The pilgrimage continues to the Porziuncola, the tiny chapel within Santa Maria degli Angeli, where Francis received his vocation and where he died. Then, we walk through the Basilica of St. Francis, standing before his tomb in reverence, before moving to the Basilica of St. Clare, home to the original San Damiano Cross that spoke to Francis.

We explore more of Assisi’s treasures, including Chiesa Nuova (Francis’ childhood home), San Ruffino (where both Francis and Clare were baptized), and the imposing Rocca Maggiore, offering breathtaking views of Assisi.

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DAY 5: A Special Encounter – A Blessing from the Holy Father

Our final morning in Rome is an unforgettable experience – a Papal General Audience in St. Peter’s Square. With privileged private seating, we listen to Pope Francis as he offers words of wisdom and encouragement, blessing all present. This is a rare and special moment, affirming our faith and mission as young pilgrims.

The rest of the day allows for personal visits and leisure, whether revisiting a favorite basilica, exploring the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, or taking a quiet walk along the Tiber River to soak in the last moments of this spiritual journey.

With hearts full of grace and unforgettable memories, we take some final moments to soak in the beauty of the Eternal City before heading to the airport for our late-night flight home.