Happy Jubilee!
Pope Francis has announced that 2025 will be a Jubilee Year. The theme for this Jubilee Year is “Pilgrims of Hope.”
A Jubilee Year is traditionally proclaimed by the Universal Church every 25 years. It is a particular year set aside to encourage the faithful to embark on pilgrimages, to repent of their sins and forgive the sins of others, and to renew a focus on the spiritual life. This Jubilee Year began on December 24, 2024 and will end on January 6, 2026.
During this Jubilee Year millions of people are expected to visit Rome to participate in the numerous events planned in the city and at the Vatican to mark the Jubilee 2025. If you are not able to go on a pilgrimage all the way to Italy, you might be wondering how you can be a “Pilgrim of Hope.” Here are a few ideas…
Read the jubilee document – Read “Spes Non Confundit,” the document in which Pope Francis promulgated the 2025 Jubilee Year. It includes a scriptural reflection on hope, as well as an explanation of the meaning of a jubilee year. It also gives ideas and encouragement living out the Holy Year in mercy, charity and hope.
Make a little pilgrimage – In his announcement to the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis said that “setting out on a journey is traditionally associated with our human quest for meaning in life. A pilgrimage on foot is a great aid for rediscovering the value of silence, effort and simplicity of life.” Take advantage of any pilgrimages that your local diocese or parish has set up or go on a little pilgrimage of your own.
Perform acts of mercy and practice hope – More important than all the glitz and glam that a Jubilee Year might bring, is what happens inside of you. Make this Jubilee Year personal. Find ways to exercise the coral works of mercy. Look for ways to grow in hope through prayer and the practice of virtue. Commit to making this year a true time of transformation so that you may indeed have a happy Jubilee.
