Pilgrimage in the Footsteps of St Paul – Rome**
03 May 2026.
This morning we gather at San Silvestro, pilgrims drawn together from different places yet united in one purpose: to walk, to pray, and to allow the witness of St Paul to shape our hearts. As we greet one another, we remember that Paul himself arrived in Rome not as a tourist but as a missionary—led by the Spirit, strengthened by faith, and ready to give everything for Christ.
Our day begun as we set towards the Spanish Steps, we begin our day as Paul began his mission: step by step, trusting that God works through the ordinary rhythm of our movement.
The beauty of Rome surrounds us with a deep beauty of companionship. Paul never travelled alone; he formed communities, encouraged believers, and built up the Body of Christ. Our shared walk echoes that same spirit.
At Ss Ambrose and Charles Borromeo, we pause to reflect on the courage of the saints who came before us. Paul reminds us that holiness is not perfection but perseverance—choosing Christ again and again, even when the path is steep.
In Piazza del Popolo, we enter a space that has welcomed travellers for centuries.
At the Pantheon, we stand before a building older than Christianity itself—once a temple to many gods, now a church dedicated to the One who transforms all things. Paul preached this very message: that Christ enters every culture, every heart, every story, and makes it new.
In the Church of St Louis of the French, Caravaggio’s painting draw us into the drama of conversion – The calling of St Matthew, that reminds us of God’s invitation often comes unexpectedly, in the midst of ordinary life. Paul too was surprised by grace on the road to Damascus. We ask for the openness to be surprised today.
A well‑earned gelato stop becomes its own moment of grace—joy shared, laughter exchanged, the simple delight of being human together. Even small pleasures can become reminders of God’s generosity.
The Heart for Mission: At the Jesuit Chiesa del Gesù that housed the tomb of Ignatius Loyola, we reflect on the missionary fire that burned in Paul’s heart.
Like Paul, Ignatius centuries lived with a restless desire to bring Christ to the world. Here we ask: What is God inviting me to carry forward from this pilgrimage? Where is my mission field?
Finally, we return to San Silvestro for Mass, gathering once more as a community transformed by the day’s journey. The Eucharist becomes the summit of our pilgrimage—Christ feeding us, strengthening us, sending us forth just as He sent Paul.
Our day concludes with dinner at Le Grotte, where conversation, gratitude, and fellowship continue to deepen the bonds formed along the way. Paul often ended his letters with warm greetings, reminders of friendship, and encouragement.
Tonight, we echo that spirit as we share a meal and give thanks for the grace of this day.
Contributed by Josette Charles, Adelaide, South Australia.