St. Paul’s Major Seminary Regent, Freetown, Sierra Leone – On Sunday, 6th April 2025, the Archdiocese of Freetown came together for its annual Lenten pilgrimage to St. Paul’s Major Seminary in Regent. The pilgrimage began at Albert Academy at 7:30 a.m., with thousands of parishioners embarking on a challenging four-hour climb to the Seminary.

The pilgrimage was structured into several parts, each offering an opportunity for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. The journey was led by various parish priests, who guided the faithful through the day’s devotions.

The pilgrimage culminated in a powerful Mass at St. Paul’s Major Seminary, celebrated by the Chief Celebrant, Most Rev Dr. Edward Tamba Charles, Archbishop of Freetown. He was joined by other priests from across the Archdiocese. The liturgy was an opportunity for deep spiritual reflection, providing a sacred conclusion to the day’s journey.

The homily, delivered by Revd. Fr. Daniel Saameakpe, centered on the theme “Let us Journey Together in Hope,” a message that resonates with the Jubilee Year’s focus on conversion, hope, and unity. Revd. Fr. Saameakpe called on the pilgrims to reflect on their spiritual journeys, both as individuals and as a community, and to open their hearts to God’s call for renewal. He drew connections between the pilgrimage and biblical journeys, including the stories of Abraham and the Israelites’ Exodus, reminding pilgrims that true pilgrimage is about more than a physical journey; it is a spiritual journey toward faith, trust, and hope in God’s promises.

Revd. Fr. Saameakpe also expanded on the four perspectives of pilgrimage—life pilgrimage, moral pilgrimage, place pilgrimage, and interior pilgrimage. He emphasized that pilgrimage is not simply about visiting sacred places but is a call for inner spiritual growth and a deepening relationship with God.

In his reflections, Revd. Fr. Saameakpe referenced Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis’ teachings on pilgrimage, noting that it is a deeply spiritual experience. Pilgrims, he said, are invited to encounter God in the sacred places they visit, allowing those encounters to lead to personal conversion and holiness.

The Day’s Liturgical Celebrations
The pilgrimage included several important moments of prayer and devotion. Pilgrims participated in the Stations of the Cross, which were recited on the way to the Seminary campus, a meditative walk reflecting on Christ’s suffering. Upon reaching the Seminary, Penitential Services and individual confessions offered pilgrims a chance for spiritual renewal and reconciliation. The Rosary (Sorrowful Mysteries) was recited, providing a time of reflection on the Passion of Christ.

The day also included Eucharistic Adoration, a Holy Hour, and Benediction, offering pilgrims the opportunity for silent prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

The Mass was made all the more meaningful by the beautiful voices of the St. Cecilia Choir, including the Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish Choir from Juba. Their music filled the air and enhanced the reverent atmosphere, making the celebration of the Holy Mass a truly uplifting and spiritually enriching experience for all.

The Archdiocesan Annual Lenten Pilgrimage provided an opportunity for the faithful to renew their faith, deepen their spiritual connection, and prepare their hearts for Easter. The event brought together the Archdiocese of Freetown, creating a sense of unity, prayer, and hope as pilgrims journeyed together in faith.