Readings at Mass Today
14/12/2025
Third Sunday of Advent
Joyful Reflections on Rome
Why go to Rome in December? I can answer simply—why not? An intrepid group of pilgrims from this parish, alongside some others from Fulham and Caledonian Road, found their Jubilee Pilgrimage to be very worthwhile.
Each of the four Holy Doors—within the four major basilicas—St Peter’s, St John Lateran, St Mary Major and St Paul’s Outside the Walls—has its own character and charism, so to speak. We were able to reflect as we passed through these doors on how the Lord calls each one of us to repentance and to a new and living encounter with His love. There was ample opportunity for confession and prayers, and therefore the Jubilee Indulgence was obtained by many of the pilgrims.
Alongside the Holy Doors, we also spent time in the Catacombs of St Callixtus, the Coliseum (site of much Christian martyrdom) and the Venerable English College. We met up with Joshua, a seminarian from this parish, who is in formation for the priesthood there.
A week or so after returning from the Eternal City I have had a little time to reflect on the experience. What stands out most of all?
Firstly, the sense of companionship and friendship. We were brought together by a desire to visit Rome in this Holy Year. But, by the end of our five days there was a sense of togetherness and an ‘esprit de corps’ which bound us together and worked at different levels; spiritual, emotional, intellectual and so on.
Secondly, we had formed a bond with Peter and Paul, and the Roman saints who joined us on pilgrimage. We understood more deeply the significance of Rome to each of us as Catholics. This is historical but also contemporary. The many tombs and churches spoke eloquently of the call to witness to Christ not only with our lips, but with our lives.
Arrivederci Roma!
Father Daniel
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