DAY 1 - Saturday, 26th April Basilica of St. Mary Major

This morning, we will fly from Dublin to Rome and upon arrival meet our Marian Pilgrimages representative and driver who will remain with us for the duration of our pilgrimage. Carlo Acutis had a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, often saying that �The Virgin Mary is the only woman in my life.� Our pilgrimage will begin with a visit the Basilica of St. Mary Major, the largest Catholic Marian Church in Rome and home to the venerated image of Salus Populi Romani; an Icon of the Virgin Mother and Child credited with saving the city of Rome from plague during the late sixth century. It is before this icon that Pope Francis prays before embarking, and upon returning from each international Apostolic journey.

This afternoon we will cross the Holy Door of the basilica and after celebrating the opening Mass of our pilgrimage will have time for private prayer before the image of Salus Populi Romani.

As we drive to our accommodation, we will catch glimpses of some of the many ancient monuments scattered throughout Rome, evidence that the �Eternal City� has a history and an appeal like no other city in the world. We will check into our accommodation, a religious residence within walking distance of St. Peter's Basilica, and after time to relax in our rooms enjoy dinner in a typical Roman restaurant.


DAY 2 - Sunday, 27th April Canonisation of Blessed Carlo Acutis

This morning, during Mass in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis will declare Carlo Acutis a saint, becoming the first millennial to be canonised.
Pope Francis has presented Carlo as a role model for young people today. Carlo is an authentic witness that adolescents can also experience the Gospel, and it is without doubt that the charisma of Carlo Acutis will continue to inspire young people throughout the world. As Pilgrims of Hope, the canonisation ceremony today is proof that we are all called to be saints.

The historical centre of Rome boasts such sites as the Pantheon. Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona - a true symbol of Baroque Rome with the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers dominating the square. After free time for lunch we will embark on a walking tour which will take us through the narrow-cobbled streets as we make our way from Trevi Fountain, pass the famous Pantheon before arriving in the vibrant square of Piazza Navona where we will have the remainder of the evening free for shopping and private sightseeing.


DAY 3 - Monday, 28th April Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica

St. Peter's Basilica is without doubt one of the holiest temples of Christendom. This morning, we will make our pilgrimage through the Holy Door and have time for private prayer at the tombs of the great saints; St. John Paul II and St. John XXIII. Accompanied by our guide we will enjoy a tour of the basilica which is home to masterpieces by artists of the calibre of Michelangelo and Bernini amongst countless others.

After free time for lunch, we will visit the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the �Mother Church of all churches� and seat of the Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis. After a visit to the basilica and time for private prayer, we will walk to the nearby Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs. According to tradition, the Holy Stairs were transported from Jerusalem to Rome in 326 and are the steps which led up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem on which Jesus Christ climbed on his way to trial. The Holy Stairs attract millions of pilgrims each year who wish to honour the Passion of Jesus Christ.

Our day will conclude with the celebration of Mass in the nearby Pontifical Irish College.


DAY 4 - Tuesday, 29th April Full Day Assisi

We will depart early this morning from our hotel in Rome and drive through the �Green Heart of Italy� to the town of Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare, and resting place of Carlo Acutis. Our time in Assisi will begin at the Basilica of St. Clare, home to the original San Damiano Cross which has been carefully preserved through the centuries, and the tomb of St. Clare where we will spend time in private prayer.

Our next stop will be the Sanctuary of the Spoliation, resting place of Carlo Acutis. The young Carlo had the capacity to enjoy life in a simple way, and just like St. Francis of Assisi was not impressed by material things. It is in this part of Assisi where the young Francis stripped himself naked, publicly relinquishing his lavish lifestyle, and so fitting that the remains of Carlo Acutis rest in this very spot.

As we walk through the medieval town, accompanied by our guide, we will hear also of the life of both St. Francis and St. Clare and how they chose a life of charity and prayer. Our time in Assisi will conclude at the Basilica of St. Francis where we can admire the impressive frescoes and later have time for prayer at the tomb of the Poor Man of Assisi.


DAY 5 - Wednesday, 30th April Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia

This morning, we will celebrate the closing Mass of our pilgrimage at the Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia, the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Rome. We will have time for prayer before the image of the Merciful Jesus, the statue of St. Sister Faustina Kowalska and her reliquary donated by the Holy Father John Paul II after her canonisation. We will have some time at leisure before driving to Fiumicino airport, as we conclude our Jubilee pilgrimage.


CASA MARIA ALLE FORNACI

Housed in an early 20th century building, Casa Santa Maria Alle Fornaci is a religious residence located within walking distance of St. Peter's Square. The residence has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, each with a private bathroom and shower. Within walking distance is a selection of restaurants serving typical Roman and international cuisine.


ITINERARY

Please note our group has been officially registered to attend the Canonisation Mass and entrance to St. Peter's Square will be controlled by Vatican authorities. As we must follow the instructions of both Vatican and Roman authorities the above itinerary is subject to change.


IMPORTANT

Due to traffic restrictions in Rome, it is not always possible for coaches to arrive close to the main tourist sites, therefore a certain level of walking is involved. The ancient, cobbled streets of Rome are not suitable for wheelchair users or those using mobility aids. As a result, there are no official local facilities for hire of wheelchairs or mobility aids. Should you have mobility difficulties we strongly advise that you bring a companion with you.