Thousands of consecrated men and women from around the world came to Rome for the Jubilee of Consecrated Life—a two-day pilgrimage of faith, prayer, and communion that culminated with Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square.

A Pilgrimage Begins at the Holy Door

The Jubilee began with the symbolic passage through the Holy Door. Pilgrims walked in prayer down Via della Conciliazione, heading toward the heart of the Church. Among them were Sisters Guadalupe and Immaculata of the Order of Augustinian Recollects, visiting Rome for the first time.

“Yes, it’s our first time for this jubilee, it’s our first time and we’re very excited,” Sr. Guadalupe shared.

“Well, it’s a beautiful city, and for us Christians,” she added, “it has something very special — that’s why we’re more than excited and grateful to the Lord.”

Pope Leo XIV: Consecrated Life as a Gift to Be Cultivated

Pope Leo XIV welcomed the pilgrims and presided over the Eucharistic celebration in St. Peter’s Square. In his homily, reflecting on the Gospel verbs “Ask, seek, knock”, he connected these spiritual invitations with the vows of poverty, obedience, and chastity—emphasizing their foundation in prayerful trust and generous love.

“Dear brothers and sisters, the Lord, to whom you have given everything, has rewarded you with such beauty and richness, and I would like to urge you to treasure and cultivate what you have received,” the Pope exhorted.

A Testimony of Joyful Witness and Daily Prayer

For many of the participants, the pilgrimage to Rome was not only a spiritual highlight but also a deeply personal journey.

“I’ve found it wonderful because I had never been here before. I love seeing Rome and setting foot in Rome,” said Sr. Immaculata, who comes from Tanzania.

Sr. Guadalupe is from Mexico. For both sisters, prayer is not confined to moments of liturgy—it permeates their daily routine, even in the kitchen.

“We dedicate ourselves to making almond cake, and while we’re making it, we also pray,  because first of all,” Sr. Immaculata shared, “we offer it to the Lord through prayer. So, the whole time we’re praying, and even while we work, we’re also entrusting everything to the Lord.” 

Adapted by Jacob Stein. Produced by Alexey Gotovskiy; Camera by Fabio Gonella; Video edited by Ilaria Chimenti