Pilgrim of hope: Passau bishop leads group to Rome!

Pilgrim of hope: Passau bishop leads group to Rome!

Passau, Deutschland - Preparations for the large Rome pilgrimage 2025 take shape. From September 5th to 11th, Bishop Stefan Oster will accompany the journey under the motto "Pilgrim of Hope" that Pope Francis chose for the Holy Year. In times that are characterized by uncertainty, the pilgrims should be on the move through the streets of Rome as hope. With four buses and supported by the diocesan blowers, the participants will have the opportunity to get to know the city better on seven hills, including significant historical sites that range from antiquity to modern times. A special Highlight of the pilgrimage will be a joint service in the famous St. Peter's Basilica and the crossing of the holy gate, as the diocese of Passau reports.

While there was an important event in the preparations for the pilgrimage, Bishop Stefan Oster recently visited the emeritus Pope Benedict XVI. in Rome. According to the bishop, it was a "warm encounter" that he described on his Facebook page. Oster was accompanied by the journalist Peter Seewald, to whom he handed over a new book entitled "Benedikt XVI. - The German Pope", which was created in collaboration with the diocese. Despite a fall that had given Benedict a blue eye a week earlier, the Pope was in good shape, mentally lively and shared anecdotal memories. He gave the bishop on behalf of everyone in the home diocese, such as Pnp.de reported.

The upcoming Romwallfahrt is not only a trip, but also a sign of solidarity and hope for the participants, while they come together in a historical place that has been the center of Christianity for centuries. The encounter with Pope Benedict XVI. Also underlines the close connection between the diocese of Passau and the Vatican.