SFXC70 Pilgrimage and Study Tour to Rome and Lyon — A Journey of Faith and Brotherhood
As part of our School’s 70th Anniversary celebrations, 34 students, Brother John, and our staff members, embarked on a Marist Pilgrimage and Study Tour to Rome and Lyon from 12 to 21 April 2025, under the theme “Brotherhood – 70 Years and Beyond.”
This 10-day journey was a once-in-a-generation opportunity—the first of its kind in our School’s history. It coincided meaningfully with both the Catholic Holy Year 2025 and the Easter season, adding extraordinary spiritual depth and significance to the experience.
In Rome, students entered through the Four Holy Doors, a rare privilege granted only during Holy Years, and visited numerous sacred and historical sites, including St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican Museums, the Catacombs of San Callisto, and the Colosseum. These experiences offered a powerful connection to the universal Church and a deeper appreciation of its rich heritage and living faith
The second half of the pilgrimage brought the group to Lyon, France, the birthplace of the Marist mission. There, students explored the Four Marist Places—Le Rosey, La Valla, Les Maisonnettes, and Notre-Dame de l’Hermitage—accompanied and guided by the Marist Brothers. Each location revealed profound insights into the life and vision of St. Marcellin Champagnat, immersing our pilgrims in the enduring Marist values of faith, simplicity, humility, and family spirit.
One particularly moving moment occurred on the final night at the Hermitage, where our students and teachers presented their tour jackets to the Brothers as heartfelt souvenirs. This act of gratitude and shared brotherhood was warmly received and symbolized a lasting bond between our school community and the global Marist family.
Our special thanks go to all who made this journey possible—especially the Marist Brothers in Rome and Lyon for their hospitality and guidance, and to those behind the scenes who helped turn this vision into reality.
This pilgrimage was not just a journey through sacred lands, but a spiritual journey of reflection, connection, and renewal. It brought our students closer to the Marist story and inspired them to live out its values with renewed purpose—as we celebrate 70 remarkable years of Marist education and look ahead with hope.
