In this article, we explore everything you need to know about the 2025 Jubilee: what the Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church is, its significance, and the central theme of this special year. We will discover when the Jubilee officially begins in Rome, its duration, and how frequently it is celebrated.
- What is the Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church?
- When Does the Jubilee Start in Rome?
- How Long Does the Jubilee Last in Rome?
What is the Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church?
The Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church is a highly significant religious event celebrated to promote faith, charity, and forgiveness. It is a special occasion for the faithful worldwide to renew their spiritual commitment and receive plenary indulgences.
What Does Jubilee Mean?
The word “Jubilee” comes from the Hebrew “yobel,” meaning “ram’s horn,” used in ancient Israel to announce the sabbatical year. In Christian tradition, the Jubilee is a period of remission of sins and reconciliation with God, a time of spiritual renewal and grace. It is a moment when the faithful are invited to make pilgrimages, confess, participate in liturgical celebrations, and perform works of mercy.
Theme of the 2025 Jubilee
The theme of the 2025 Jubilee will be “Pilgrims of Hope.” This theme emphasizes the importance of pilgrimage as a metaphor for life’s journey, a path of hope toward redemption and inner peace. The faithful are encouraged to live this period with a spirit of hope and solidarity, rediscovering their faith through concrete acts of charity and love toward others.
When Does the Jubilee Start in Rome?
The 2025 Jubilee will officially begin on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This symbolic rite, performed by the Pope, marks the beginning of the Jubilee period and invites all the faithful to enter a time of grace and spiritual renewal. The opening of the Holy Door is a highly significant moment, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.
How Long Does the Jubilee Last in Rome?
The Jubilee in Rome will last for an entire year, ending on December 24, 2025. During this period, the faithful will have the opportunity to participate in numerous religious celebrations, cultural events, and solidarity initiatives. The duration of the Jubilee allows pilgrims to plan their journey to Rome at various times of the year, actively participating in the scheduled activities.
How Often is the Jubilee Celebrated?
The ordinary Jubilee is celebrated every 25 years. However, there are also extraordinary Jubilees that can be proclaimed by the Pope for special occasions or needs of the Church. The ordinary Jubilee is a fixed appointment on the Catholic Church calendar and represents a moment of profound reflection and spiritual renewal.
When Was the Last Jubilee?
The last ordinary Jubilee was celebrated in 2000, known as the Jubilee of the Millennium, proclaimed by Pope John Paul II. More recently, Pope Francis proclaimed an extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, celebrated from December 8, 2015, to November 20, 2016. These Jubilee events have drawn millions of pilgrims to Rome, offering them the opportunity to experience a unique spiritual journey.
