From Rome 2000 to Rome 2025

Twenty-five years ago, during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000, I had the unforgettable privilege of being in Rome under the pontificate of Pope Saint John Paul II. Fast forward to 2025, and here I am again, older, hopefully wiser, and still a pilgrim, for the Jubilee of Hope, first declared by Pope Francis and now continued by Pope Leo XIV.

This year’s celebration had a special twist: the Jubilee of Digital Missionaries and Catholic Influencers. As someone who has been both for the past five years, I felt honoured to be part of it. At first, I wasn’t sure I would go, but my Faith-Chat Platform family wouldn’t hear of it. They practically packed my bags for me, organised everything, and lovingly shoved me out the door with a smile.

It was a nostalgic return to the Eternal City, yet so different from my last time. On Sunday, 27th July, I travelled from Inverness to Heathrow, spending the night there before my early Monday morning flight to Rome. My departure time was 7:55 a.m., which meant – to my deep regret – that I couldn’t pray the Rosary live with my Instagram community at 7:00a.m. But divine providence had a surprise in store. I joined our Rosary Space on X instead, and just as I was settling in, someone asked me to preach. Apparently, there was no priest available that morning. There I was, sitting in Heathrow Airport, Bible app open, finding a quiet corner, and delivering a short reflection on the spot. God has a sense of humour.

Digital Missionary arrives in Rome

I arrived in Rome with no great expectations, just a heart ready to participate. But my first challenge came right at Fiumicino Airport, where I wandered in circles looking for the taxi stand. Eventually, I made it to my hotel, only to be greeted by the most unexpected sight- rain in Rome. Yes, I had travelled all the way from Scotland only to be followed by Scottish weather! Clearly, I had brought a piece of home with me.

I bought an umbrella (because a pilgrim must be ready for anything) and set off for Piazza Pia, eager to register for the event. That’s when I faced what could have been a joy-ending obstacle: I was told registration had closed because I hadn’t completed it online beforehand. Now, I don’t speak Italian, Spanish, or French, but I was able to invoke the Pentecostal experience, somehow, by God’s grace; it worked. I walked out with a ticket in my hand and a grateful smile on my face, thanks to Fr. Alvaro.

At the Event

Inside the auditorium, I joined my fellow digital missionaries. I was soon surrounded by inspiring company, from pro-life champion Lila Rose speaking on stage to Fr. Rob Galea, Fr. Simon, Katie McGrady, Bishop Barron, Fr. Manuel, Franco, and so many others. The atmosphere was electric with faith and creativity. We ended the day with a solemn Eucharistic Adoration.

The following day brought one of the high points of the trip: a pilgrimage walk through the holy door and a concelebrated Mass with Cardinal Tagle, followed by a personal address from the Pope himself. Truly, an unforgettable grace. That afternoon, we toured the Vatican Gardens, and in the evening, enjoyed the Digital Missionaries Concert, where I finally met one of my favourite Catholic artists, Matt Maher.

Every minute of my short stay counted. I am especially grateful for the warm company of the priests I met and the joy-filled conversations with Paschal, a young seminarian full of promise.

I returned to Scotland with a heart overflowing, grateful for the memories, the people, the faith shared, and yes, even the rain.

Special thanks to Lady Alice, Jane, Victor, and all who made this journey possible.

Chukwu gozie unu!

God bless you all.

Fr. James Anyaegbu