Join the Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to D.C.’s Immaculate Conception shrine in October
On October 18, 2025, pilgrims from across the Archdiocese of Newark will travel to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., for a special Archdiocesan Pilgrimage marking the Jubilee Year of Hope.
“The Archdiocese of Newark has had a special affinity to our Blessed Mother since its establishment in 1853,” said Cardinal Tobin, who will lead the pilgrimage. He called the event a “tangible expression of our affection and devotion,” where worshipers can celebrate the Archdiocese’s bond with Our Lady as well as their personal relationship.
Parishes will provide bus transportation for pilgrims, leaving early on the morning of October 18. After arriving at the basilica, pilgrims will be able to receive the Sacrament of Penance in multiple languages. There will also be a Holy Rosary, an organ concert, and a procession of banners from parishes around the Archdiocese.
Cardinal Tobin will celebrate Mass in the basilica’s Upper Church.
A mighty basilica to honor the Virgin Mary
In 1846, America’s Catholic bishops declared the Blessed Virgin Mary the patroness of the United States under her title of the Immaculate Conception. 67 years later, Pope Pius X enthusiastically supported plans to build a shrine to Our Lady in the Nation’s Capital. The foundation stone of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was laid in 1920, with construction of the Upper Church completed in 1959.
At 459 feet long and 240 feet wide, with a tower that reaches 329 feet, the basilica shrine is the largest Catholic church building in North America and the tallest building in Washington, D.C. Known for its striking Byzantine and Romanesque-revival design and vibrant mosaics, the basilica contains more than 80 chapels and oratories honoring the Blessed Mother and her relationship with peoples around the world.
The basilica is also home to a Hall of American Saints, located in the crypt, with devotional statues of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini, and others.
“Hope that does not fade”
Newark’s first Archdiocesan Pilgrimage was held in 1973 and usually takes place every three years. This year’s pilgrimage, just two years removed from the last such event, marks a unique opportunity as it will take place during the Jubilee Year of Hope.
In announcing the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis called it “a Holy Year marked by the hope that does not fade, our hope in God.” He also expressed his desire that the Jubilee would prove to be “a lively experience of grace and hope” for all those who participate in events like the October 18 pilgrimage.
Visit the 2025 Archdiocesan Pilgrimage website to learn more about this event, including prayer materials and information about participating parishes. For information about bus transportation, contact your parish.
Featured image: Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., and the priests of the Archdiocese of Newark celebrate Mass during the 2023 Archdiocesan pilgrimage. (Photos by Archdiocese of Newark)
