Great! 0 David and Katherine, ACT, Australia, Jul 2025
Happy to leave a review- it was fantastic- very well organised, great host (Marco). This year marks a Jubilee Year in the Catholic Church (every 25 years), a time of grace, renewal, and pilgrimage. One of the most moving experiences was crossing the Four Holy Doors in Rome - at St Peter’s Basilica, St John Lateran, St Mary Major, and St Paul Outside read more the Walls. These doors are only opened every 25 years. Two of the highlights for me was processing the pilgrimage cross across St Peter’s Square and attending the Papal audience.
In Assisi, I walked in the footsteps of St Francis and St Clare, whose lives of humility, service, and joy continue to inspire. The town itself radiates peace, and visiting the Basilica of St Francis - where his tomb lies - was a moment of huge reflection. My only criticism- we didn't have enough time in this town. We had a three course lunch - lovely - but would be better to grab a sandwich and see more.
From the grandeur of the Vatican to the quiet beauty of Assisi, I was struck by the artistry, devotion, and centuries of prayer embedded in these sacred spaces. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s dome in St Peter’s, standing in the Sistine Chapel, praying in the crypts of saints, and witnessing the living faith of pilgrims from around the world (including half a million young people who were in Rome at the same time for World Youth Day!).
As a Principal in a Catholic school, this pilgrimage wasn’t just a personal journey - it was a professional and spiritual renewal. It reminded me of the sacred responsibility I have to nurture faith, learning, and community. I return with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to continue building a school where every child is known, loved, and inspired and where we nurture hearts, minds and spirits. Thank you for organising.