The Jubilee 2025, proclaimed by Pope Francis, is a major event for the Catholic Church and for millions of faithful around the world. It marks a Holy Year, a special time of prayer, forgiveness and spiritual renewal. This Jubilee is part of a long tradition dating back to the origins of Christianity and represents a unique opportunity for believers to strengthen their faith and receive indulgences.
In this article, we will explore the origins of the Jubilee, how it unfolds, its themes, its main ceremonies and its impact for pilgrims and the whole world.
Origins and significance of the Jubilee
The idea of a Jubilee has its origins in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. According to the Book of Leviticus (25:8-13), God commanded the Israelites to celebrate a special year every 50 years, called the Jubilee Year. In that year, land was to be left fallow, debts cancelled, slaves freed and social justice restored.
In the Christian tradition, the first official Jubilee was instituted in 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII. Since then, it has been held every 25 years (with some exceptions) and is presented as a year of grace and mercy, with specific rites, including the opening of the Holy Door in Rome's major basilicas.
The last ordinary Jubilee took place in 2000, under the pontificate of John Paul II. In 2015-2016, Pope Francis proclaimed an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, outside the usual cycle.
The Jubilee 2025 will therefore be the first Ordinary Jubilee of the 21st century, eagerly awaited after recent global challenges, notably the Covid-19 pandemic.
Theme and message of the Jubilee 2025
Pope Francis has chosen "Pilgrims of Hope" (Peregrinantes in Spem) as the theme for the Jubilee 2025. This theme reflects the need to rekindle hope in a world marked by economic, social, health and climate crises.
The key messages of the Jubilee 2025 will be:
Christian Hope: a trust in God that overcomes the difficulties of today's world.
Forgiveness and Mercy: an invitation to conversion and reconciliation.
Solidarity and Social Justice: a call to help the most vulnerable.
Creative Care: a commitment to ecology and the safeguarding of the planet.
Pope Francis places particular emphasis on the need for an open and fraternal Church, where everyone can feel welcome.
Overview of the Jubilee 2025: Key dates and events
The Jubilee will officially open on 24 December 2024 and close on 6 January 2026. During this period, many events and celebrations are planned, mainly in Rome, but also in dioceses around the world.
The major stages of the Jubilee
The Opening of the Holy Door (24 December 2024)
The Pope will open the Holy Door of St Peter's Basilica, a gesture symbolising the entry into a new spiritual life.
The other three major basilicas in Rome (St John Lateran, St Paul Outside the Walls and St Mary Major) will also have their Holy Doors opened.
The Pilgrimage to Rome
Millions of pilgrims are expected in the Italian capital.
Itineraries of faith will be offered, including visits to the four major basilicas, moments of prayer and confessions.
Special events
Themed days will be organised (for young people, families, priests, the sick, etc.).
A world youth meeting is planned for August 2025.
A celebration for migrants and refugees will highlight the Church's commitment to universal fraternity.
Jubilee Indulgences
The faithful will be able to obtain a plenary indulgence, erasing the penalties due to sin, under certain conditions:
Visit one of the major basilicas or a diocesan cathedral.
Confess and receive the Eucharist.
Pray for the Pope's intentions.
Practise an act of charity or mercy.
Closing of the Jubilee (6 January 2026)
The closing of the Holy Door will mark the end of the Holy Year.
4. The impact of the Jubilee on the faithful and society
The Jubilee 2025 will have a profound spiritual impact, but also social and economic repercussions.
1. On the faithful
A call to conversion and spiritual renewal.
An opportunity for pilgrimage and inner purification.
A powerful moment for prayer and solidarity.
2. On the Church and society
The Jubilee will highlight the values of peace, unity and mercy.
It could encourage a new lease of life for evangelisation.
It will raise awareness of integral ecology, a theme dear to Pope Francis.
3. On the economy and tourism
Rome is expected to welcome more than 30 million pilgrims, generating a major economic impact for the tourism and hotel sector.
Many infrastructures will be renovated to welcome visitors.
Conclusion
The Jubilee 2025 promises to be a landmark event for Catholics and for the world as a whole. With its emphasis on Hope, Mercy and Solidarity, it will offer a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal and universal fraternity.
Whether you are a believer or not, this Jubilee invites you to reflect on the essential values of forgiveness, sharing and peace. A year that, beyond religious rites, aspires to instil a spirit of reconciliation and hope for humanity.
May this Jubilee be a source of inspiration and renewal for all those who undertake this pilgrimage towards a deeper faith and a fairer world.
