Celebrating the Jubilee 

“Jubilee” is the name given to a particular year as a time to re-establish a proper relationship with God, with one another, and with all of Creation. It is a “Holy Year” since it is a time in which God's holiness transforms us.   The frequency of Holy Years has changed over time, with the most recent in 1983, 2000 and 2015.

The Jubilee Year begins with the traditional opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, 2024 by Pope Francis and continues until the closing of the Holy Door on January 6, 2026, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.  Other basilicas and cathedrals also practice this tradition.  

Each Jubilee has a theme,  which for 2025 is Pilgrims of Hope.  For more details, read the introductory letter from Pope Francis at www.tinyurl.com/pilgrims2025

The logo shows four figures stylized to indicate humanity coming from the four corners of the earth. They are embracing each other to indicate the solidarity and brotherhood which joins the peoples. The figure at the head is holding onto the cross.

There is also an app for the Jubilee.  Go to  your favorite app store on your mobile device and search for “Jubilee 2025” to find Jubilaeum25.

The Jubilee calls for us to set out on a journey and to cross boundaries. When we travel, we do not only change places physically, but we also change ourselves. Hence, it is important to prepare ourselves well, to plan the route, and learn about the destination. In this sense, the Jubilee pilgrimage begins before the start of the journey itself; the starting point is the decision to set out. 

The journey takes place gradually. There are various routes to choose from and places to discover; it is made up of particular sets of circumstances, moments of catechesis, sacred rites and liturgies. Along the way our traveling companions enrich us with new ways of understanding things and fresh perspectives.

Watch for the Jubilee banners that will be present in both of our parish churches.