Jubilee Pilgrimage

Photo from Ashwin Vaswani on Unsplash

Important Update Regarding the Passing of Pope Francis and Our Jubilee Pilgrimage

Dear Sacred Heart Pilgrims,

As many of you may have heard, Pope Francis passed away this morning, Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 AM Rome time (1:35 AM Virginia time) at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta.

Father Vaccaro and I are offering our prayers today for the repose of Pope Francis’s soul and for the entire Catholic Church as we enter this profound moment in our Church’s history.

Pilgrimage Questions and Updates

I know many of you will have questions concerning our pilgrimage departing in just a couple of days. Below, I’ve provided all the information currently available based on updates received from Rome since 4:00 AM and prior experience.

Please note: All of this information is subject to change depending on announcements and protocol updates issued by the Holy See (Vatican)

Pilgrimage Departure – No Changes

Our pilgrimage is proceeding as scheduled.

• Departure Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025
• Meeting Time: 5:15 PM
• Location: In front of the Swiss Air check-in desk at Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Rome Itinerary – Some Adjustments Expected

Due to the death of Pope Francis, some portions of our Rome itinerary will be adjusted. The coming days will be shaped by long-established protocols of the Holy See. We will revise our schedule to allow for participation in important Vatican events, including the opportunity to pay our last respects to Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica and, if possible, attend the funeral.

Our itinerary outside of Rome (April 28 – May 2) will proceed as planned.

Lying in State in St. Peter’s Basilica – April 23–25

Pope Francis’s body will be vested in red liturgical garments and placed in St. Peter’s Basilica for three days of public visitation, beginning Wednesday, April 23.

We should have the opportunity to enter the Basilica to pray and pay our respects.

Papal Funeral – Expected Between April 25–27

As of this writing, the official funeral date has not been announced, but based on tradition, it is likely to be held between Friday, April 25 and Sunday, April 27 in St. Peter’s Square.

The College of Cardinals is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, April 22, to finalize the funeral arrangements, including setting the official date and time.

We will make every effort to attend if the funeral is during our stay in Rome.

Please note:

• Attendance may require early morning arrival
• Lengthy security lines are expected
• Space may be limited

Burial of Pope Francis

Pope Francis will be buried not in the grottos beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, but rather at Basilica of St. Mary Major, a church he held in special devotion.

Due to the limited access of this event, it is unlikely we will be able to attend the burial.

Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis – Postponed

In light of the Holy Father’s passing, the Vatican has announced that the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis has been postponed.

While this news is disappointing, we understand the importance of this time of mourning and reflection for the Church. We are still hopeful that we can visit the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis during our time in Assisi.

Ongoing Monitoring and Communication

Father Vaccaro and I, along with my staff in Rome, are closely monitoring all developments and will adapt our itinerary as needed.

We will notify you only if there are major changes.

Thank You for Your Patience and Prayers

We sincerely thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we navigate these unique and solemn circumstances. Please continue to keep Pope Francis and the universal Church in your prayers during this Easter season.

May God bless each of you and your families with peace and hope during this Easter week.

With gratitude and peace,

Dan Callahan
Pilgrimage Director
JMJ Tours
dan@JMJtours.com