Video highlights pilgrimage sites in Hamilton diocese

A series of such videos has been inspired by the recent Jubilee Year theme, Pilgrims of Hope, and presents key places of pilgrimage throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

The first site mentioned in the latest video is the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Hamilton, which was described as a “modern cathedral rich in religious and cultural symbolism” and “a living landmark, a place where generations gather for worship, celebration and remembrance”.

Among the aspects of the cathedral mentioned in the video were the Great Resurrection window, which casts colour across the sanctuary, and the tabernacle near stained-glass windows of the evangelists – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

“More than a building, this cathedral is a heartbeat, a home for prayer, a witness to baptisms, weddings, conversion, farewells and the quiet moments in between,” said presenter Joanna Kearney. “This is a story of a community shaped by faith and the sacred space that continues to hold it.”

The next venue to feature was St Peter’s Church in Maketu in the Bay of Plenty, described as a “humble place of faith”. Deacon Doug Rewi explained the history of the church and its links with Bishop Pompallier. Aspects of the building in which Māori symbolism intertwine with theology to produce deeply spiritual artwork were highlighted.

Ms Kearney then spoke about Matatā, also in the Bay of Plenty, which has a connection with St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who visited there several times. The children of Matatā performed a waiata about the saint for the video.

The Tyburn monastery at Ngakuru near Rotorua also featured in the pilgrimage video. One of the sisters there spoke about the monastery and urged people to visit.

Ms Kearney described her visit to pilgrimage sites in Hamilton Diocese as a “hikoi filled with healing, unity and the enduring spirit of hope”.

FULL STORY

Pilgrims of Hope – Catholic Diocese of Hamilton (Catholic Discovery/YouTube)