During the Jubilee Year, more than 10,000 Irish visitors passed through the doors of the Pontifical Irish College in Rome, arriving in pilgrimage groups for tours, hospitality, and liturgical celebrations.
Reflecting on the College’s role in welcoming pilgrims from Ireland, the Rector, Fr Paul Finnerty, stated:
“The Jubilee at the College has been marked by many highlights: the celebration of the Feast of All the Saints of Ireland, enriched by the presence of a choir from Kilmessan (Diocese of Meath); a scholarly reflection offered by Rev. Dr Thomas O’Connor on the life and trials of St Oliver Plunkett, marking the 400th anniversary of his birth and the 50th anniversary of his canonisation; our community’s participation in the General Audience with the Holy Father; and the joy of welcoming groups for the Jubilee of Youth, whose presence brought fresh energy and hope to the College and to the Church in Ireland. These moments, among many others, have strengthened the bonds of faith and heritage between Ireland and Rome, reminding us that faith remains vibrant in Ireland and highlighting the enduring connection between the Irish people and Rome. They underscore the importance of preserving and transmitting this rich legacy. The Jubilee journey is not yet complete, and the College continues to be a place of welcome, hospitality, and faith. The witness of those who come here and serve here is a reminder of the call to ‘Hope’ that the Jubilee Year places before us.”
On December 16, the College will host a commemorative conference on Daniel O’Connell in collaboration with the Government of Ireland and the Irish Embassy to the Holy See. The conference will focus particularly on the values and faith that shaped O’Connell’s worldview and work. The Pontifical Irish College is notably home to the monument to Daniel O’Connell, where his heart is said to rest, in accordance with his deathbed wish: “My body to Ireland, my heart to Rome, and my soul to heaven.” Scholarly debate continues regarding the true location of the heart, with some claiming it was stolen from the College. These historical questions, among others, will be explored at the upcoming conference in Rome.
Next year, the College will mark the centenary of its presence on the Coelian Hill.
