Pilgrimage has long been a cherished tradition in the Catholic faith, symbolising our spiritual journey toward God. It involves setting aside time to travel to a sacred place, and seeking deeper communion with God through prayer, reflection, and renewal. Pope Francis, by selecting the theme 'Pilgrims of Hope' for the Jubilee Year 2025, has made pilgrimage a particular focus.
Whether walking ancient paths or visiting local sites, pilgrimage offers a unique opportunity to encounter Christ through sacred spaces, personal devotion, and shared experiences with fellow pilgrims. This intentional journey mirrors the salvation story, reminding us that life itself is a pilgrimage, guided by faith and hope in God’s promises as we move toward the fulfilment of His Kingdom.
As we celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope throughout 2025, pilgrimage takes on even greater significance. The theme, Pilgrims of Hope, invites us to journey inward and outward, reflecting on God’s enduring presence throughout salvation history and in our personal lives. Pilgrimages during this holy year can be moments of spiritual renewal, allowing us to rediscover hope through encounters with the sacred. Whether embarking on a physical pilgrimage to a place of spiritual significance somewhere in Aotearoa New Zealand or engaging in spiritual pilgrimages through acts of service and prayer, we are called to walk together as a community of faith, drawing closer to God and one another in hope and love.
