Julie-Anne Tallon – Director Catholic Primary Partnership
In March 2025, 25 Catholic school leaders from primary and secondary schools across England embarked on a transformative pilgrimage to Assisi. Guided by Sr. Judith Russi (EducareM) and Father Jonathan Vesey (Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Birmingham), the journey gained special significance during Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year of Hope.
The pilgrims were deeply moved by St. Rufino, Assisi’s first bishop and patron saint, whose cathedral serves as the spiritual heart of the city. Within these ancient walls, participants reflected on educational leadership as a calling that resonates with St. Rufino’s steadfast commitment to building faith communities.
St. Francis’s radical embrace of poverty and his profound reverence for creation resonated deeply with the school leaders. As they walked through the olive groves of San Damiano and visited the Basilica of St. Francis, participants discovered renewed inspiration for fostering environmental stewardship and simplicity within their school communities—ideas that align perfectly with the Jubilee Year’s focus on renewed hope for our common home.
At the Basilica of St. Clare, the group reflected on Clare’s courageous devotion and her founding of the Poor Clares. Her example inspired meaningful discussions about creating contemplative spaces within today’s busy school environments.
A particularly moving experience was visiting the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis, the ‘millennial saint. ‘ His modern witness as a teenager who utilized technology to spread faith and love of the Eucharist provided school leaders with fresh perspectives on engaging young people in spiritual life—a powerful reminder that hope can be kindled through contemporary means.
The pilgrimage provided spiritual enrichment and invaluable collegial support as leaders shared challenges and insights from their varied educational contexts. Participants returned to their schools revitalised, embodying the spirit of Assisi and the message of the Jubilee Year of Hope in their leadership practices.
