Thirty Year 10 and 11 students from St Benedict’s College in Colchester travelled to Rome for a five-day pilgrimage, for a week of prayer, faith, history and shared experiences.
During the pilgrimage, students celebrated Mass each day in a different chapel or church, including the Chapel of St Benedict inside the Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls. This was a particularly special moment for the group, as St Benedict is the college’s patron saint. Students also visited Rome’s Papal Basilicas and explored some of the city’s most famous landmarks and historic sites, experiencing first-hand the places where generations of Christians have gathered in prayer and worship.
The pilgrimage created lasting memories for the students, with Year 11 pupil Logan describing it as “one of the best trips I’ve ever been on”. Reflecting on his experience, he spoke about the welcoming atmosphere, the famous landmarks and the support of the teachers throughout the trip.
When asked to sum up the pilgrimage in three words, students described it as “inspiring, memorable and perfect”, while others called it “unforgettable” and “life changing”.
St Benedict’s would like to thank all 30 students for the way they represented the college, as well as Fr Damien Wade, Episcopal Vicar for Youth Ministry, for his care, support and guidance throughout the pilgrimage.
