The Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have concluded a two-week pilgrimage to Rome that included the Ad Limina Apostolorum Visit and the Conference’s Annual Plenary Meeting.

The visit, held from April 27 to May 8, brought together bishops from across the Caribbean for meetings with the Holy See, spiritual renewal, and discussions on the future of the Church in the region.

During the Ad Limina Apostolorum Visit from April 27 to May 2, the bishops met with the Holy Father and several Vatican dicasteries and offices, including those responsible for clergy, 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.

According to the AEC, the audience with the Holy Father was the highlight of the visit, describing it as “profoundly enriching, encouraging, and deeply pastoral.”

“The encounter strengthened their communion with the Successor of St. Peter and renewed their commitment to evangelization throughout the Caribbean region,” the release stated.

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, while at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul they renewed their commitment to apostolic ministry.

The second week of activities focused on 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, a retreat directed by Sr. Julie Peters, SSM, and a pilgrimage to Assisi before convening business sessions of the Conference.