Roman Catholic Bishopric Of The Forces
"Defende nos in Proelio"
Jubilee of the Armed Forces and Security Services
Rome - 8th-9th February 2025
The Holy Father has declared 2025 to be a year of Jubilee, or a Holy Year, something which happens every 25 years. Jubilee is the name given to a particular year, a time to re-establish a proper relationship with God, with one another, and with the whole of creation. The theme of this Holy Year is ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ signifying a year of hope for a world suffering the impacts of war, the on-going effects of pandemic, and a climate crisis.
During a Jubilee year we are encouraged to be a pilgrim, to enter one of the many Holy Doors around the world to signify the decision to follow Jesus, to pray, and to experience the mercy of God through the sacrament of reconciliation. Rome is one of the many pilgrimage sites and a focus for many Jubilee events. The focus in Rome over the weekend of 8 to 9 Feb was a series of Jubilee events for members of the Armed Forces and Security Services.
Sqn Ldr Mel Johnston attended the Jubilee celebrations in Rome with Bishop Paul and a group from the UK Armed Forces. Below he describes the experience and how they affected him.
Over the weekend of 8-9 February 2025, Rome became a focal point of unity and reflection as it hosted the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel. This significant event, part of the Holy Year celebrations, drew over 40,000 participants from approximately 100 countries, including delegations from Italy, the United States, Ukraine, and Australia. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and shared purpose, as military and security personnel reflected on their roles as protectors and peacekeepers. There were numerous opportunities to engage with military and security personnel from across the globe and reflect upon the bonds of service and sacrifice that unite all of us in our roles no matter our nationality.
The UK contingent was drawn from all Three Services and represented a range of ranks and trades. Spiritual guidance was provided by the Bishop of the Forces, Rt Rev Paul Mason ably assisted by a selection of service Chaplains, who’s knowledge of Rome was of benefit for not just for navigating to the various events and churches throughout the Eternal City but also finding the best spots for lunch! Ensuring everyone was in the right place at the right time was Fr Nick Gosnell who did a sterling job and kept everyone on track and on time!
The two-day event commenced with a solemn pilgrimage to the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica. Participants, adorned in their respective uniforms, walked through the historic streets of Rome, symbolising a journey towards spiritual renewal and hope. In the afternoon, the iconic Piazza del Popolo resonated with the harmonious sounds of the Italian Army Inter-Force Music Band. The welcoming ceremony was graced by dignitaries such as Defence Minister Guido Crosetto and Archbishop Santo Marcianò, Military Archbishop for Italy. Their addresses underscored the vital role of armed forces and security personnel in upholding peace and justice worldwide.
The pinnacle of the Jubilee was the Holy Mass celebrated by Pope Francis on Sunday morning in St. Peter's Square. Despite clearly struggling with his health, the Holy Father delivered a heartfelt homily, highlighting the noble mission of those in uniform. He urged us to be "courageous witnesses of God's love," highlighting our duty to promote life, safeguard justice, and serve as beacons of hope in a tumultuous world.
Pope Francis also cautioned against the "temptation to cultivate a warlike spirit," reminding all those gathered for this Jubilee weekend that the ultimate goal [of our service] is the preservation of peace and the protection of human dignity. His words resonated deeply, offering spiritual guidance to all present who can often face morally complex situations whilst discharging their duty.
The Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel in Rome served as a powerful reminder of the universal quest for peace and the essential role of those dedicated to its preservation. Through shared understanding, spiritual growth and personal reflections, the event fostered a renewed sense of hope and solidarity among those of us lucky enough to attend and reinforced our commitment to serve as instruments of peace in in our lives.
