The Catholic Church has introduced "Pilgrims of Hope" as the official hymn for the Jubilee Year 2025, encapsulating the theme of spiritual pilgrimage and renewal. The hymn's original Italian text, "Fiamma viva della mia speranza," was penned by theologian Pierangelo Sequeri and has been translated into English by Monsignor Andrew Wadsworth. The composition is set to music by Francesco Meneghello.
"Pilgrims of Hope" serves as a musical reflection of the Jubilee's motto, encouraging the faithful to embark on a journey of hope and spiritual rejuvenation. The hymn's lyrics emphasize themes of unity, trust in God, and the transformative power of faith. The chorus resonates with the line:
"Like a flame my hope is burning, may my song arise to you: Source of life that has no ending, on life’s path I trust in you."
The hymn has been translated into multiple languages, including Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Dutch, Albanian, Arabic, Polish, Maltese, Filipino, and Thai, to ensure its accessibility to the global Catholic community.
To facilitate widespread participation, the Vatican has made available various resources, including sheet music and official recordings. These materials are intended to assist parishes and communities in incorporating the hymn into their liturgical celebrations during the Jubilee Year.
The Jubilee Year 2025, themed "Pilgrims of Hope," invites Catholics worldwide to engage in a period of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to their faith. The hymn "Pilgrims of Hope" stands as a unifying anthem, inspiring the faithful to journey together in hope and spiritual growth.