Pilgrimage of the Patronesses of Europe and Doctors of the Church: A Spiritual Journey for the 2025 Jubilee in Rome

The Significance of the Pilgrimage

Designed specifically for the 2025 Jubilee, this pilgrimage through churches connected to the Patronesses of Europe and Doctors of the Church offers a reflective and prayerful route that deepens the connection with these pivotal historical figures. Each church selected along this route not only invokes the memory of these spiritual leaders but also encourages pilgrims to contemplate the values they exemplified and promoted. Visiting these sites provides a unique perspective on the impact of women in the spiritual and intellectual realms of the Church, emphasizing the journey's considerable historical and spiritual relevance.

Doctors of the Church

The title of Doctor of the Church is a distinguished honor the Catholic Church bestows on saints who have made exceptional contributions to the elucidation and interpretation of the Christian faith. The criteria for this honor include: eminent doctrine, verified by writings of considerable theological or spiritual merit; sanctity of life, affirmed through canonization; and an official declaration by the Pope or a legitimately convened general council

This accolade is awarded posthumously to those who, once canonized, are recognized not only for their sanctity but also for their influential theological or spiritual writings, which have considerably enriched the Church's doctrines. This honor is infrequently granted and reserved for those whose scholarly and spiritual contributions are deemed essential to the Church’s teachings and the understanding of the faith.

The Patronesses of Europe and Doctors of the Church

Doctors of the Church

The title of Doctor of the Church has been conferred upon several extraordinary women, whose lives and writings have profoundly enriched Christian theology and inspired generations of believers.

• Hildegard of Bingen

Born in 1098 in Germany, Hildegard of Bingen was a Benedictine sister, mystic, scholar, and composer. Her mystical visions were articulated in works such as Scivias ("Know the Ways"), where she delved into the relationship between God, humanity, and the cosmos. She was also a pioneer in the fields of medicine and botany. In 2012, Pope Benedict XVI honored her as a Doctor of the Church for her profound theological insights and her ability to merge science and faith, presenting a vision of creation as emanating from divine love.

• Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena, born in 1347, led a life enriched with intense spirituality and political involvement. Despite her lack of formal education, her deep devotion propelled her to write the Dialogue of Divine Providence and numerous letters to popes and rulers, advocating for peace and unity within the Church during the Western Schism. She was designated a Doctor of the Church in 1970 for her significant theological and spiritual contributions, which have positioned her works as keystones of Catholic doctrine.

• Saint Teresa of Avila

Saint Teresa of Avila, born in Spain in 1515, was a reformer of the Carmelite Order and one of the church's great mystics. Works such as The Interior Castle and The Way of Perfection outline a spiritual journey towards a profound union with God. Her efforts in reforming the Carmelites led to the establishment of the Discalced Carmelites. In 1970, Pope Paul VI recognized her as a Doctor of the Church for her distinguished mystical teachings and spiritual guidance that assist the faithful in prayer and contemplation.

• Saint Therese of Lisieux

Saint Therese of Lisieux, also known as Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, was born in France in 1873 and lived a brief yet devoted life to God in the Carmelite monastery of Lisieux. She is celebrated for her little way, a path to sanctity underscored by simplicity, humility, and a trusting surrender to God, through which she highlighted how the smallest daily actions can embody acts of love toward God. Her autobiographical work Story of a Soul has inspired millions globally. In 1997, Pope John Paul II proclaimed her a Doctor of the Church for her profound spiritual teachings.

These four women, through their writings and lives, have made extraordinary contributions to the understanding of spirituality and Catholic doctrine, thereby earning the title of Doctor of the Church.

Co-Patronesses of Europe

The Co-Patronesses of Europe are remarkable female figures whose lives and spiritual contributions have significantly influenced the history of Christianity in Europe. Pope John Paul II declared them Co-Patronesses of Europe in 1999.

• Bridget of Sweden

Bridget of Sweden (1303-1373) was a mystic and the founder of the Order of the Most Holy Savior. Originating from a noble Swedish family, she initially spent part of her life at the royal court before fully immersing herself in religious life. After pilgrimages to Rome and the Holy Land, she made Rome her home until her death. Her mystical visions and insightful political and religious counsel established her as one of the era's most influential spiritual figures. Bridget has been declared a patron saint of Europe for her tireless work towards peace and unity in a time of significant ecclesiastical and political discord, and for her profound Marian devotion and commitment to the Church.

• Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380), celebrated as one of Italy's most revered saints, was a formidable influence in the 14th century. As a mystic and author, she devoted her life to fostering peace and unity within the Church amidst the Western Schism. Her persuasive correspondence with popes, royalty, and political leaders was crucial in moving the papal seat from Avignon back to Rome. Saint Catherine was named a patron saint of Europe for her unwavering dedication to the Church's unity and her bravery in upholding Christian values during challenging political and social times.

• Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein)

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, born Edith Stein (1891-1942), was a philosopher and Carmelite nun of Jewish heritage. After studying philosophy and engaging deeply with the thoughts of Saint Thomas Aquinas, she embraced Catholicism in 1922. She joined the Carmelites in 1933, adopting the name Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. During World War II, she was deported to Auschwitz, where she perished in 1942. Her life, marked by a profound intellectual and spiritual journey, embodied a testimonial of dialogue between Judaism and Christianity. Recognized as a patron saint of Europe for her faith and sacrifice, she symbolizes reconciliation and hope for Europe, particularly during periods of deep division and hardship.

These three saints, through their life's work and spiritual legacies, have become exemplars of faith, bravery, and commitment not only in Europe but globally, representing ideals of peace, unity, and reconciliation.

Pilgrimage Churches

During this pilgrimage, devotees are privileged to visit churches of extraordinary beauty and historical importance. Here are some key churches along the route:

• Santa Maria sopra Minerva

Saint Mary above Minerva (Santa Maria sopra Minerva), one of the few Gothic churches in Rome and situated near the Pantheon, was erected on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. This basilica is celebrated for its architecture and as the resting place of the relics of Saint Catherine of Siena, a patron saint of Europe. It also houses significant art, including Michelangelo’s famed Risen Christ. This church offers a profound space for reflection on the life and impact of one of the church's most influential saints and mystics.

• Santa Brigida a Campo de' Fiori

The Church of Saint Bridget of Sweden (Santa Brigida a Campo de' Fiori), located in the lively Campo de' Fiori square, is dedicated to Saint Bridget of Sweden, founder of the Order of the Most Holy Savior—a religious order dedicated to spiritual service—and co-patroness of Europe. This church is hosted in the very house where Saint Bridget lived her final years in Rome. Today, it serves as an important pilgrimage site primarily for visitors from the Nordic countries, and is renowned for its intimate and spiritual ambiance.

• Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza

One of the most iconic Baroque churches in Rome, Sant'Ivo alla Sapienza is celebrated for its extraordinary helical dome crafted by Francesco Borromini. Situated at the historic site of the University of La Sapienza, the church symbolizes both intellect and faith. It commemorates Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (born Edith Stein), a Jewish-born philosopher who converted to Catholicism and became a co-patroness of Europe. The church serves as an ideal spot for contemplation on the interplay between faith and reason, a pivotal theme in Edith Stein's life.

• Santa Maria della Vittoria

Located in Rome's Sallustiano district, the Church of Saint Mary of Victory (Santa Maria della Vittoria) exemplifies Baroque architecture. Constructed in the 17th century, it famously houses Gian Lorenzo Bernini's The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, one of the most iconic sculptures of the Baroque era. Initially dedicated to Saint Paul, the church was later renamed in honor of the Catholic victory in the Battle of White Mountain. It is linked with Saint Teresa of Avila, a Doctor of the Church noted for her profound spiritual writings and reform of the Carmelite order.

• Trinità dei Monti

Perched atop the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna, the Church of the Most Holy Trinity on the Mounts (Trinità dei Monti) is a Gothic-Renaissance church established in the 16th century by the King of France. Historically associated with Rome's French community, the church overlooks one of the city’s most famous squares and features two distinctive bell towers. Its interior is adorned with numerous Renaissance paintings and frescoes. The church is linked to Saint Therese of Lisieux, also known as 'The Little Flower,' a Doctor of the Church and co-patroness of France.

• Basilica di Santa Cecilia in Trastevere

The Basilica of Saint Cecilia in Trastevere, nestled in the Trastevere district of Rome, dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to Saint Cecilia, patroness of music. Her artistic prowess and mystical visions also evoke the legacy of Saint Hildegard of Bingen, a Doctor of the Church and pioneer in both music and the sciences. The basilica is renowned for its ancient Roman ruins and the artistically and historically significant 9th-century apse mosaic. Within the basilica stands the celebrated statue by Stefano Maderno, which portrays Saint Cecilia in the position her body was reportedly discovered. Additionally, the basilica houses an important fresco by Pietro Cavallini, an early example of Romanesque revival in art.

• Basilica di Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio

The Basilica of Saint Augustine in Camp Martius (Basilica di Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio) is a Renaissance church nestled in the heart of Rome, close to Piazza Navona. Constructed in the 15th century, it stands as one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture in the city. Its facade, constructed using travertine sourced from the Colosseum, presents a simple yet commanding appearance. Inside, the basilica shelters significant artworks including Caravaggio’s renowned Madonna of Loreto and Raphael’s fresco Saint Anne and the Virgin Mary. Another notable feature is the tomb of Saint Monica, mother of Saint Augustine, revered at a side altar. The basilica also has a connection to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux.

Conclusion

The pilgrimage, designated for the Patronesses of Europe and Doctors of the Church in celebration of the 2025 Jubilee, provides the faithful with an opportunity for profound reflection on female spirituality and the crucial roles these figures play in Church history. Venturing through the churches of Rome, pilgrims can explore a vibrant nexus of art, faith, and European culture, thus rendering this pilgrimage a unique spiritual encounter during the Jubilee.