9/5/2025

Twenty Catholic schools from Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan will take part in an ambitious and uplifting project in celebration of the Jubilee Year 2025 and its global theme, ‘Pilgrims of Hope'.

The ‘Pilgrims' Walk' is a collaborative initiative which will see pupils and staff from across the region take part in a unique and symbolic pilgrimage, highlighting both unity and environmental stewardship and providing a powerful statement of faith, hope, and community action.

15 Catholic primary schools, four secondary schools, and St David's Sixth Form College will take part in the event which takes place during May and June. A specially commissioned Pilgrims' Staff will be carried on foot from St Helen's School in Barry to St David's Metropolitan Cathedral in Cardiff, visiting every Catholic school and college in the region, along the way.

At each stop, students will hand the staff over to the next school, promoting messages of hope, community care, and climate responsibility. The pilgrimage culminates in a Mass of Thanksgiving at the Cathedral, where the staff will be welcomed by representatives from all participating institutions and remain on display throughout the Jubilee Year.

The Cardiff Council One Planet team is supporting the project, helping schools with route planning and eco-activities that align with the environmental message at the heart of this year's Jubilee.

Gareth Rein, Headteacher at St Peter's RC Primary School in Roath said:"The Jubilee Year is a special time of renewal for the Church, and the Pilgrims' Walk project brings together the Catholic schools of Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan in a beautiful expression of faith, hope, and commitment to caring for God's creation."

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "This unique opportunity demonstrates a shared commitment to faith, future, and the planet, placing a focus on the urgency of the climate crisis and the role that young people can play in building a more sustainable and compassionate world."