The Catholic Church has already commenced its celebration of a momentous occasion in 2025: the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal, reconciliation, and spiritual grace. Jubilee Years, also known as Holy Years, are special years declared by the Pope, usually occurring every 25 years, to emphasize the Church’s mission of mercy and redemption. The Jubilee Year 2025, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”, promises to be an extraordinary opportunity for Catholics worldwide to deepen their faith and encounter God’s mercy in profound ways.
What Is a Jubilee Year?
The tradition of Jubilee Years has its roots in the Old Testament, where every 50 years was declared a year of jubilee (Leviticus 25:10). During these years, debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and the land was allowed to rest. This practice symbolized God’s justice, mercy, and the restoration of relationships among His people.
“You shall consecrate the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; of you shall return to your own property, and each of you shall return to your family"
~Leviticus 25:10
In the Catholic Church, the tradition of Holy Years began in 1300 when Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first Jubilee. These years are times of special indulgences, prayer, and acts of charity. Pilgrims are encouraged to visit designated holy sites, especially in Rome, to seek reconciliation with God through the Sacrament of Penance and to deepen their spiritual lives.
The Holy Door: A Gateway to Grace
A central symbol of every Jubilee Year is the Holy Door. In Rome, there are four Holy Doors located in the major basilicas: St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. During a Jubilee Year, these doors are ceremonially opened by the Pope to mark the beginning of the celebrations. Pilgrims passing through the Holy Door can receive a plenary indulgence, a grace that remits all temporal punishment due to sin, under the usual conditions of confession, Eucharist, and prayers for the Pope’s intentions.
The Holy Door is far more than a physical portal; it is a powerful symbol of Christ, who described Himself as the “door” (John 10:9). Walking through the Holy Door represents a personal journey of conversion, an entry into God’s mercy, and a step toward a renewed relationship with Him.
The Significance of the Jubilee Year 2025
The theme of “Pilgrims of Hope” reflects the Church’s mission to inspire confidence in God’s loving presence amid the challenges of our times. Pope Francis, known for his emphasis on mercy and outreach, has called for the Jubilee Year to focus on themes of hope, solidarity, and ecological responsibility.
This Jubilee will likely draw millions of pilgrims to Rome and holy sites worldwide, offering them opportunities to:
- Seek God’s mercy: The Jubilee calls on Catholics to encounter the Sacrament of Reconciliation and rediscover the boundless mercy of God.
- Strengthen faith: Pilgrimages and spiritual activities provide moments of reflection, prayer, and growth in faith.
- Live charity: Jubilees challenge the faithful to engage in acts of love and service, especially for the poor and marginalized, reflecting Christ’s compassion.
How Can We Participate?
For those unable to travel to Rome, dioceses around the world will designate local Holy Doors and organize events to enable participation in the Jubilee’s graces. Activities may include:
- Pilgrimages to cathedrals and shrines
- Special Masses, retreats, and devotions
- Charitable initiatives to support the poor and vulnerable
Catholics are invited to embrace this time as a chance to renew their faith, practice forgiveness, and spread hope to a world in need.
A Time of Grace and Renewal
The Jubilee Year 2025 is a call for every Catholic to pause, reflect, and walk through the “door” of Christ’s mercy. Whether by traveling to Rome, participating in local celebrations, or living out the Jubilee’s message in daily life, this Holy Year invites us to become true “pilgrims of hope”—bringing light and love to the world as we journey toward eternal life with God.
As we prepare for this extraordinary celebration, may we open the doors of our hearts to the transforming power of God’s grace and embark on a path of spiritual renewal.