Thirty-three students and staff from St Dominic’s Sixth Form College travelled to Rome from 6th–9th November for our Jubilee Pilgrimage, three warm autumn days filled with prayer, history, and friendship.

We began at the Scala Sancta, climbing the Holy Stairs in reverence toward the Sancta Sanctorum – the “Holy of Holies,” once the personal chapel of the early Popes. From there, we continued to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, visiting the burial tomb of Pope Francis and pausing to pray before the crib relic. 

A guided tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum in the afternoon brought ancient history vividly to life. The next morning, we attended the Papal Audience in St Peter’s Square – a highlight for many. Students were thrilled as Pope Leo passed close to our group during his drive around the square, and we all received a blessing at the end of the audience.

We then visited the beautiful Sistine Chapel and walked through the Holy Doors of St Peter’s Basilica — a profound and memorable moment for everyone.

Our pilgrimage concluded with Mass at the Venerable English College, the English seminary in Rome, where many of the English martyrs were trained for the priesthood. 

We returned to London grateful for the journey, the friendships formed, and the renewed sense of hope we carried home.

Clare Castell | College Chaplain

Jubilee Pilgrimage to Rome – Pilgrims of Hope