In the shadow of the magnificent city of Athens, standing high on the Areopagus (Mars Hill), one is reminded of a moment in history that changed the course of faith forever.
As the setting sun casts a golden glow across the city, it’s impossible not to imagine the apostle Paul standing on this very hill, proclaiming the risen Christ to the people of Athens.
The Areopagus, a rocky outcrop that once served as the site of the aristocratic council of ancient Greece, is not just a geographical landmark. It is where Paul delivered his most powerful speech, as recorded in Acts 17 – the New Testament’s longest and most detailed exposition on who God is and who we are as His children.
In his speech, Paul declared the truth of the “unknown God” that the people of Athens were unknowingly seeking. He revealed to them the God we know as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a God who is ever-present in our lives.
“For in him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)
From this sacred place, the seeds of faith were sown, and from it grew some of the most vibrant and active Churches of the ancient world, in places like Philippi and Thessalonica.
As we stand here, we are reminded of the ever-present call to faith and the journey of discovery that continues today.
The Diocese of Parramatta’s World Youth Day pilgrims in 2023. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
A sacred invitation – join us on pilgrimage
This Year of Jubilee, the Diocese of Parramatta invites you to walk in the footsteps of St Paul and encounter the hope and renewal that come from visiting these ancient holy sites.
This unique opportunity supports the actions under the Diocesan Pastoral Plan for a Synodal Church as a Church that “walks together”. A Synodal Church helps all the People of God walk forward together as a pilgrim people.
This journey together provides an opportunity for a shared encounter in faith that strengthens the connection with Christ, the Church and each other, both personally and as a community.
As such, we are offering two special pilgrimage opportunities:
Young Adults Pilgrimage (ages 18-35): 19 July – 5 August
This pilgrimage includes the Jubilee of Youth as part of the Holy Year of Jubilee.
Pilgrims will travel through Greece, Turkey, and Rome, visiting the sacred places where St Paul once walked and preached.
It will also coincide with the canonisation of Pier Giorgio Frassati, an inspiring example of youthful devotion and service.
Adults Pilgrimage (ages 35+): Dates to be confirmed
This pilgrimage will journey from Greece, through Turkey, and into Rome, where we will visit the five Holy Doors of the Jubilee.
It is an opportunity for adults to deepen their faith and reflect on their spiritual journey, guided by the wisdom of the Church and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Image: Shutterstock
Why pilgrimage?
A pilgrimage is not just a trip or excursion. It is a spiritual journey – an opportunity to step closer to God and reflect on His work in our lives.
As pilgrims, we will walk together, pray together, and discover together how the Holy Spirit is moving in and through us.
This journey is about encountering the heart and mind of Jesus; allowing that encounter to transform us as we return to our parishes and communities.
Guided by Catholic Youth Parramatta and the Mission Enhancement Team, with the accompaniment of Catholic chaplains, each pilgrim will be invited to discern the movements of the Spirit in their life.
Whether you are a young adult seeking direction or an adult looking to renew your faith, this pilgrimage is an invitation to encounter God in a profound way.
What you can experience
Here are some of the amazing benefits of joining a pilgrimage to Rome and Greece this Jubilee year:
- Walk in the footsteps of St Paul, visiting the very places he preached
- Experience the joy and spiritual energy of the Jubilee of Youth, and take part in significant events such as the canonisation of Pier Giorgio Frassati
- Reflect on the significance of the Holy Doors of Rome and immerse yourself in sacred traditions
- Grow in your faith, deepen your relationship with Christ, and develop your charisms so you can live your life and serve others with renewed zeal.
Register now!
Registration is now open for both pilgrimages:
- Register for the Jubilee of Youth Pilgrimage (18-35 years) – Registrations close 10 May 2025
- Register for the Jubilee Pilgrimage for adults (35 years and over) – Registrations close 2 May 2025.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Be sure secure your place on this extraordinary spiritual journey.
