During the February midterm, the 6th Year students from Scoil Mhuire Trim, both those undertaking the Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied, had the incredible opportunity to visit Rome on a Religious and Cultural trip. Accompanied by Mr Barry, Mr Mulvihill, and Ms Farrell, the students were also delighted to be joined by Ms O’Reilly, a recent retiree from the school, who had played an instrumental role in preparing for the trip. We were thrilled that she was able to attend as a guest. A special word of thanks goes to Mr Mulvihill for his work in organising this memorable experience.

The trip came about thanks to a special invitation from Her Excellency Frances Collins, Ambassador of Ireland to the Holy See, who warmly welcomed the students to her residence. During this visit, Ambassador Collins spoke to the students about the work of the Irish Embassy to the Holy See, Ireland’s foreign policy priorities, and the deep historical and cultural links between Ireland, Rome, and the Vatican. The group was also greeted by Deputy Ambassador Erin Swan, a proud past pupil of Scoil Mhuire. Deputy Ambassador Swan was particularly moved to see her former teachers, Mr Mulvihill, Ms Farrell, and Ms O’Reilly, and shared her delight at reconnecting with them after 20 years. Reflecting on the visit, she remarked:

“It was a real pleasure to host the girls – we were all so impressed with them. They are a great bunch and make me very proud to be a Scoil Mhuire girl! It was amazing to meet the teachers so unexpectedly after 20 years. Honestly, one of the standout moments from my time in this job.”

Adding to the significance of the trip, the students were privileged to visit Rome during a Jubilee Year of the Church, a rare and momentous occasion that occurs only once every 25 years. As part of their pilgrimage, they were hosted several times by the Pontifical Irish College, a historic centre for Irish culture and religious life in Rome. A particular highlight of the trip was the extraordinary opportunity to celebrate Mass in the Chapel of Our Lady in the Crypt of St Peter’s Basilica, just metres from the tomb of St Peter. The Mass, celebrated by Fr Paul Finnerty, Rector of the Irish College, was a deeply moving occasion and was offered for the deceased members of staff families who have passed away since the turn of the year.

The students also had the rare privilege of passing through the Holy Doors of three of Rome’s major basilicas. The Holy Doors, opened only during Jubilee Years, hold profound spiritual significance as they symbolise a path to renewal and grace for those who pass through them.

Beyond these enriching religious and cultural experiences, the students also had the chance to immerse themselves in the rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional cuisine of Rome. Their itinerary included visits to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, the Circus Maximus, the Pantheon, and the beautiful Aventine Hill, among many others.

This unforgettable trip provided our students with a deep appreciation of Rome’s cultural and religious heritage while also strengthening their connections to the wider Irish community abroad. We are incredibly proud of how they represented Scoil Mhuire and are grateful to everyone who helped make this journey a reality.

Pictured here is the group with Ambassador Frances Collins and Deputy Ambassador Erin Swan. Deputy Swan and her former teachers, as well as the group with Fr Paul Finnerty in the Crypt of St Peter’s Basilica following the celebration of the Eucharist. There is also an online post from the Irish Embassy, thanking Scoil Mhuire for their visit.