When Russian Catholics embarked on a Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome, little did they know they would be faced with a unique opportunity to show their unwavering support and prayers for Pope Francis. Despite the setback of the Pope’s hospitalization at Gemelli Hospital, the 85 Russian pilgrims, led by Archbishop Paolo Pezzi, were determined to make their spiritual presence felt.
As they couldn’t meet the Pope in person as planned, the group decided to take matters into their own hands and embarked on a walking pilgrimage from Rome’s Cornelia Metro station to Gemelli Hospital, a journey spanning over four kilometers. Their mission was clear – to pray for the recovery of Pope Francis, whom Bishop Nikolaj Gennad’evič Dubinin described as “a great pope” in his remarks to Vatican Media.
A Journey of Faith
Accompanied by Archbishop Pezzi and Bishop Dubinin, the diverse group of pilgrims, consisting of priests, nuns, and lay faithful from various nationalities, set out on a spiritual journey like no other. Despite the challenges of organizing a pilgrimage for Russian citizens, the group remained grateful for the support they received in experiencing the Jubilee.
The pilgrimage, scheduled from 10th to 15th March, included sacred rituals such as passing through the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica, praying the Stations of the Cross in the Vatican Gardens, and visiting the Papal Basilicas. However, Wednesday was reserved exclusively for Pope Francis, with the group gathering outside Gemelli Hospital to recite the Rosary and the Litany to Our Lady in a show of solidarity.
Spiritual Unity
Despite the physical absence of Pope Francis, the pilgrims felt a strong spiritual connection with him. Bishop Dubinin emphasized the deep bond between the Russian faithful and the Pope, highlighting the Pope’s prayers for the Russian Church and his dedication to promoting peace.
Alongside prayers for the Pope’s recovery, the main focus of the pilgrimage remained on invoking peace. Bishop Dubinin stressed the importance of unity and peace, urging everyone to pray for the gift of peace that only God can provide.
As the pilgrimage nears its end, the message of peace and unity resonates strongly within the hearts of the Russian faithful. Their journey to Rome has not only been a testament to their unwavering faith but also a powerful reminder of the universal desire for peace and harmony in the world.
