20 MAY 2025 A Historic Pilgrimage

In a moment that few will forget, the unexpected passing of Pope Francis during a religious pilgrimage brought together a profound mix of emotions and experiences for those present. One of our own, a dedicated classroom teacher from Kolbe Catholic College, had the unique opportunity to be in Vatican City during this historic time.

Angeline Ferris, who has been with Kolbe for over a decade, expressed her passion for Religious Education and the significance of her recent trip to Italy. Travelling with her mother and sister, they sought to visit the tombs of saints and partake in the Jubilee of Hope. Their journey was one of thanksgiving after each had encountered life-threatening illnesses during Pope Francis’ pontificate. The pilgrimage was meant to celebrate the canonisation of Carlo Acutis and to enjoy the spiritual richness of Holy Week in Italy.

As fate would have it, the group arrived in Rome just as Pope Francis passed away. This particular visit to the Vatican marked her fourth time, and it felt uniquely different. Initially, they planned to attend the canonisation mass on 27 April, but with the Pope's unexpected death, schedules shifted. Instead, they found themselves amidst the immediate preparations for the Papal requiem mass on 26 April. “It felt quite surreal,” she recounted. The atmosphere in St Peter’s Square was a mixture of sorrow and reverence. Thousands had gathered, many of whom were originally in Rome to support the canonisation of the first millennial saint.

The emotional landscape during the requiem mass drew a blend of solemnity and joy. Mourners whispered prayers, shared stories, and even sang hymns as they honoured the late Pope. “There was a palpable air of peace among the congregation as the sun beamed down on us,” she said. Striking moments included interactions with fellow attendees, such as a heartbroken Brazilian man who found solace in sharing his loss within the collective grief.

The mass itself was steeped in tradition, celebrated largely in Latin, with tender words from Cardinal Re highlighting the legacy of Pope Francis, a leader known for his boundless kindness. Certain phrases from the first reading resonated deeply with Angeline, particularly those that reflected the Pope’s commitment to “doing good” and his embrace of all people regardless of their backgrounds.

Excited by her unique experience, Angeline found herself featured in the Herald Sun the day after the funeral. An impromptu interview with a journalist led to quick and candid reflections while rushing to the Jubilee of Teenagers mass.

Reflecting on Pope Francis’ influence in her own life, Angeline shared how he inspired her. The Pope’s approach to kindness and connection pushed her to reach out to those less fortunate. Recent interactions with individuals experiencing homelessness in her community are a testament to this influence, mirroring the compassion the late pontiff showed the marginalised.

Perhaps one of the most powerful experiences of the pilgrimage was the connection formed with fellow worshipers from various backgrounds. In a moment of intimacy, they lined up for hours together, sharing laughs and stories, creating bonds across different cultures. This spirit of togetherness was visible as the crowd honoured the Pope and cheered for figures like Ukraine’s President Zelensky as they collectively mourned and celebrated.

The pilgrimage not only offered spiritual nourishment but also a chance encounter with Monsignor Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage, a significant figure in the Vatican. Their dinner together, full of prayer and warmth, turned into an exceptionally memorable evening when he presented the family with a cherished medal, a gift from Pope Francis himself. This interaction reflects the bond formed through shared experiences of faith and kindness.

In the wake of Pope Francis’ passing, Angeline’s reflections highlight not just the sorrow felt by many but also a journey of renewal and gratitude. The experiences shared during this pilgrimage serve as a reminder of the power of faith, community, and kindness that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. As Angeline continues her vocation of teaching and inspiring others, the legacy of Pope Francis will undoubtedly live on in her actions and the hearts of countless individuals around the world.