The Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have concluded a two-week pilgrimage to Rome, encompassing the Ad Limina Apostolorum Visit and the Conference's Annual Plenary Meeting. According to Antigua News Room, the visit brought together bishops from across the Caribbean for high-level meetings with the Holy See, spiritual renewal, and discussions on the future of the Church in the region.
The Ad Limina Apostolorum Visit, held from April 27 to May 2, saw the bishops meet with the Holy Father and several Vatican dicasteries and offices. Areas covered included clergy affairs, education, doctrine, family life, worship, human development, and Christian unity. The bishops also held meetings with the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, the Secretariat of State, and the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
The AEC described the audience with the Holy Father as the highlight of the visit, calling it "profoundly enriching, encouraging, and deeply pastoral." The conference stated that the encounter "strengthened their communion with the Successor of St. Peter and renewed their commitment to evangelization throughout the Caribbean region."
As part of the pilgrimage, the bishops celebrated Mass at Rome's four Major Basilicas, including the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran and St. Mary Major. At St. Mary Major, the bishops prayed at the tomb of the late Pope Francis. At the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul, they renewed their commitment to apostolic ministry.
The second week shifted focus to formation and reflection ahead of the AEC's Annual Plenary Meeting. Bishops participated in a workshop on synodal leadership led by Fr. David McCallum, SJ, and a retreat directed by Sr. Julie Peters, SSM. A pilgrimage to Assisi preceded the formal business sessions of the Conference. The full visit ran from April 27 to May 8.
