Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
“We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us…”
It is with deep joy and great anticipation that I invite each and every one of you – clergy, religious, and lay faithful – to join me on a Diocesan Pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, in celebration of the ongoing Jubilee Year of Hope.
The 2025 Jubilee Year is a sacred time of renewal, reconciliation, and grace for the entire Church – a time to rediscover the hope that only Christ can give in a world marked by anxiety, division, uncertainty, and fear. This Pilgrimage will be a visible sign that hope is alive in our hearts, in our families, and in the Church of Scranton.
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception – affectionately known as “Mary’s House” to honor Our Blessed Mother – has been designated as a special place of pilgrimage during Jubilee Year 2025 by the Administrative Committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
As the largest Catholic church in North America, the Shrine is a most fitting place for us to pray, give thanks, and to be strengthened in our mission as witnesses of hope. Visiting the Basilica will also provide pilgrims with the opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence of the Jubilee.
I am asking our clergy to encourage participation from every parish. I especially encourage families, young people, seniors, and those who have suffered loss or discouragement in recent years to participate in this pilgrimage. It is a journey not just to a holy place, but to the heart of God, who never abandons His people.
A schedule of events for the day – which include Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and time for personal prayer and tours – is available HERE.
Bus transportation is being planned from multiple points throughout the Diocese.
There are two ways to participate. First, pastors and parishes are highly encouraged to work toward filling a bus of their own parishioners and collecting money on their own, if desired, and then submitting that information to Rev. Andrew S. Hvozdovic, Diocesan Coordinator of Pilgrimages. Second, pastors and parishes can encourage parishioners and guests to register individually and pay securely on their own through the Diocese of Scranton website.
I ask for your help in having the faithful of our Diocese come together as a people of hope, united in faith. With gratitude for your witness and your love for the Church, we entrust this pilgrimage to the intercession of the Immaculate Conception.
Faithfully yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L.
Bishop of Scranton