HOLY DOORS, HOLY MOMENTS OF HOPE

From 14 to 24 May 2025, I had an opportunity to lead pilgrims on a ten-day spiritual journey through Italy, culminating in Rome during this Jubilee Year of Hope. With hearts open and spirits eager, we walked the long, sometimes tiring roads, but every step drew us nearer to the mystery of God’s strength, love, mercy, and above all, hope.

Our pilgrimage began in the culturally rich cities of Bologna and Florence and then led us into the sacred serenity of Assisi. There, the simplicity and humility of St. Francis stirred our hearts and souls. A particularly moving moment for me was praying before the incorruptible Blessed Carlo Acutis’ body. To think that this young, modern-day saint may soon be canonised - possibly by the end of June - is a sign of holiness being alive and relevant for every generation. I paused and prayed, seeking his intercession for our youth, Church, and world.

In Loreto, we encountered the tender presence of Mary in the Holy House, a place steeped in the quiet strength of her humility. Lanciano brought us face-to-face with the miraculous proof of Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist - an awe - inspiring sign of divine love. At San Giovanni Rotondo, we stood in prayer before the incorrupt body of St. Padre Pio, a visible witness to the depth of sanctity to which God calls each one of us. Then came Manopello, where the Holy Face of Jesus gently reminded us that even when we turn away, His gaze remains fixed upon us in love.

And then came Rome - the heart of the Church, and for me, the heart of our pilgrimage. We passed through the four Jubilee Holy Doors: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Each door was more than an architectural threshold; it was a doorway of grace. As the late Pope Francis reminded us, this Jubilee is a sacred time to rediscover hope - not as an abstract idea, but as a living encounter with God’s faithful love. Walking through these doors, I felt that hope, take root more deeply in my heart and in my priestly ministry.

One deeply personal and emotional moment was standing in silence at the simple tomb of Pope Francis, a man whose humility and love for the Church have touched the world. A joyful highlight was seeing Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square, waving and blessing us from his mobile, such a close and unforgettable encounter.

Despite the exhaustion of long travels and tight schedules, we celebrated Mass daily, joined in prayer and fellowship, and shared our faith stories. We were not just tourists, instead, we were pilgrims walking together in faith and hope.

Now, back in my Parish - designated as a Jubilee Pilgrim Center - I carry with me the blessings and graces of Rome. Let us continue our Jubilee Year journey, with the same joy, reverence, and trust that accompanied us. As I have come to know more deeply, Hope is not a concept. Hope is a Person - Jesus Christ - who walks with us today and always.