Throughout October and November, students and staff across the Sudbury Catholic District School Board (SCDSB) participated in a “Pilgrims of Hope” walk, joining Catholics around the world in recognition of the Jubilee Year 2025. 

A pilgrimage walk is a special journey taken by individuals and communities to grow closer to God. Rooted in centuries-old tradition, a pilgrimage walk invites participants to walk with intention, carrying Jesus in their hearts as they reflect, pray, and strengthen their spiritual connection. More than the distance travelled, it is a meaningful reminder that faith is a journey, and each step offers an opportunity for hope, peace, and renewal. 

The tradition of the Jubilee Year dates back to 1300, when Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first Jubilee, which is also known as a “Holy Year.” Its frequency has evolved over time. It was initially observed every 100 years, later every 50, and now typically every 25 years or as designated by the Holy Father. 

To honour the Holy Year, SCDSB students and staff proudly walked with banners and symbols of faith, pausing at seven prayer stations set up around their school grounds. At each stop, they reflected on themes of creation, service, peace, and God’s love. Students prayed together, performed small acts of kindness, and shared messages of hope. 

“We walked today to remember that Jesus is always by your side, and if you need help Jesus is always listening,” said Paisley, a Grade 5 student at St. Anne Catholic Elementary School. 

This year’s pilgrimage encouraged students to see their daily surroundings as sacred spaces and to recognize God’s presence in community and creation. 

Students shared some favourite moments from the experience: 

“I liked how we would pray while we were connected with nature. Our teacher told us to put our arms up in the air like a tree or baa like a sheep. That part was really fun,” said Paisley. 

“It was also fun to just be together and walk together as a school,” added Journey, a Grade 6 student. 

“The walk made me think of how grateful I am for the sun and nature and how everything is so beautiful. God created everything that we have, and we should enjoy it,” said Paisley. 

“Yes, it made me think of how grateful I am for God, the earth, the nature, the air,” shared Easton, Grade 6. 

Through prayer, reflection, and community connection, students across the board embraced the spirit of the Jubilee Year with gratitude and joy. As Joan Yawney-Matz, Religious Education and Faith Consultant, explained, “through our pilgrimage walks, students discovered that prayer is not just something we say, but something we live.” She emphasized how powerfully the event united the community, sharing that “our school, family, and parish communities came together to experience the joy of being part of a larger faith community walking together, on the road towards holiness.” 

“I am so proud of our students, staff, families, parish partners and everyone who helped make the Pilgrims of Hope Walk possible. This event is a wonderful example of how we live out our Catholic faith through both learning and action. Together, we have shown what it means to journey in faith and community,” said Morris Hucal, Director of Education for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. 

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