Apostolic Nunciature in Ghana issues guidelines for pilgrimages to Rome during Jubilee Year

The Apostolic Nunciature in Ghana has issued detailed guidelines for Diocesan pilgrimages to Rome during the upcoming Jubilee Year, set to take place from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026.

The new directives, communicated on July 23, 2024, aim to streamline the visa application process and ensure that all pilgrimages are conducted smoothly under the auspices of the local bishops.

According to the guidelines, each Diocese is permitted to organise one or two pilgrimages during the Jubilee Year, with each group ideally consisting of no more than 20 pilgrims.

The Italian Embassy requires a detailed schedule from each Diocese by the end of August 2024, specifying the planned month for their pilgrimage. “For organisation purposes, the Italian Embassy requires to have, by the end of August, a schedule that indicates the month in which each Diocese wishes to do its pilgrimage to Rome,” a statement issued by Chargd d’affaires, Msgr. Maher Chammas said.

The guidelines also emphasize the need for careful documentation and adherence to procedural requirements. Each pilgrimage must have a designated group leader, a priest appointed by a Bishop, who will be responsible for ensuring that all visa applications and supporting documents are accurately completed.

“The Priest in Charge should fill and sign the list of names using the template enclosed to this letter,” the directive specifies.

Additionally, no minors are allowed to participate in the pilgrimages due to safety concerns, and the duration of the visa will be strictly limited to the pilgrimage period, which should not exceed two weeks.

The guidelines conclude with a reminder that it is the responsibility of the priest in charge to maintain contact with the Apostolic Nunciature and the Italian Embassy to manage any issues related to the pilgrimage and ensure all pilgrims return home as scheduled.