This week, over 50,000 pilgrims from 88 dioceses across 20 European countries have gathered in Rome for the 13th International Pilgrimage of Altar Servers, running from July 29 to August 2. Organized by Coetus Internationalis Ministrantium (CIM), an association for altar boys and girls founded in 1961, the pilgrimage is themed “With You,” inspired by Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
On Monday, altar servers were seen across various Roman basilicas, including the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere and the Church of the Gesù, engaged in liturgical preparations and celebrations as part of their pilgrimage. CIM president Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, SJ, of Luxembourg, highlighted the significance of the pilgrimage, emphasizing the unity and diversity of the global community of altar servers. “Despite our different countries, languages, and ways of praying, we share one service and one responsibility, which unites us all and makes each of us a peacemaker,” he stated at a press conference.
In addition to liturgical events, the pilgrimage features a range of activities, including cultural visits to museums, social interactions with international pilgrims, and various festivals celebrating music, film, and drama. A vocational pastoral support center near St. Peter’s Square has also been established to assist participants.
Altar server Tobias Kiss from Romania expressed his excitement about seeing Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Square and meeting fellow altar servers and pastoral workers from around the world. “Our shared experience of serving at the altar brings us close to the Lord Jesus and connects us deeply with the Church,” Kiss told EWTN News.
Notably, around 35,000 of the 50,000 pilgrims hail from Germany, a testament to the strong tradition of altar service in the country. Auxiliary Bishop Johannes Wübbe of the German Bishops’ Conference noted that the high youth participation is a sign of hope for the Church in Germany, especially as it faces challenges in engaging young people in faith and church life.
Other participating countries include Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Hungary, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Ukraine.