Pope Francis has inaugurated the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, a historic event that takes place every 25 years. The Ordinary Jubilee will conclude on January 6, 2026, with the closing of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The opening of the Holy Door is significant as it calls all who enter to walk in holiness of life. Representatives from around the world crossed the threshold during the Christmas Mass, and the Pope encouraged them to embark on a journey of spiritual renewal.
According to tradition, the Holy Door was first used for the Jubilee of 1450 and has been opened by Popes Martin V, Alexander VI, John VII, St. John Paul II, and now Pope Francis. The door is located at the rear wall of the chapel dedicated to the Mother of God in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pope Francis highlighted the theme of hope during his homily, recalling the Gospel passage about the angel announcing the birth of Jesus to shepherds. He emphasized that God has become one with humanity and encourages us to find our hope in Him.
The Jubilee is a summons to spiritual renewal and transformation, urging us to rediscover the joy of encountering the Lord. The Pope also announced plans to open Holy Doors at various locations, including prisons and his own cathedral.
The opening of the Holy Door marks the beginning of an extraordinary event that will take place every 25 years until 2050.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2024-12/pope-francis-opens-holy-door-ushering-in-the-jubilee-of-hope.html