Cork and Ross Pilgrims return home spiritually enriched after Rome pilgrimage
The group of 53 young pilgrims from the Diocese of Cork and Ross have returned home inspired and uplifted after a powerful week-long pilgrimage to Rome, highlighted by an overnight vigil with Pope Leo and over a million young Catholics from around the world.
On Saturday, their journey began with a deeply moving celebration of Mass beneath the Chair of St Peter in St Peter’s Basilica. Some members of the group had the privilege of actively participating in the Mass; serving, reading, and singing in the choir.
In the afternoon, the group travelled to Tor Vergata, the site for the overnight vigil. There, they joined over a million young pilgrims from all across the world for an evening of prayer, music, joy, and celebration of our faith with Pope Leo.
Selfie time! Bishop Fintan with pilgrims Alannah Hegarty, Cillian Ó Cróinín and Caolán Ward.After sleeping under the stars (and a small rain shower) the group celebrated Mass with the Holy Father on Sunday. After packing up, they returned to the Irish College in Rome for a well-deserved afternoon of rest and recreation at the pool.
That evening, the group gathered for a final shared meal, with the pilgrims surprising the leaders with a very thoughtful card thanking them for the guidance and care shown throughout their time in Rome.
The pilgrims returned to Cork early Monday morning. The group are grateful for the prayers and support they received from the parishes across the Diocese during the pilgrimage.
Watch a televised news report of the pilgrimage on EWTN TV below.
Cork and Ross Pilgrims at Tor Vergata
