On the evening of December 24, 2024, Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Peter, marking the beginning of Jubilee 2025, dedicated to the theme of hope. This age-old rite, which has been part of the Vatican's modern religious tradition, symbolizes the commencement of this extraordinary year of mercy and forgiveness, allowing millions of pilgrims the chance to receive plenary indulgences as they cross the threshold of the Holy Door.
This marks the second occasion for Pope Francis to lead such festivities, following his previous role during the Holy Year of Mercy proclaimed in 2015. The ceremonial opening was not merely ceremonial; it is steeped in deep historical resonance, with the passageway's significance derived directly from the Gospel, as reflected in John 10:7-9, emphasizing Jesus as the door to salvation.
After the papal bull announcing the Jubilee was publicized last May, there was extensive preparation leading to this momentous occasion. Traditionally, the door to the Holy Door has been blocked with masonry between Jubilees, maintaining the religious sanctity until its official opening. This year, the opening occurred during Christmas Eve celebrations, when the Vatican was aglow with lights and holiday spirit, welcoming not only locals but also visitors from around the globe.
The Pope, 88, arrived at the Basilica using a wheelchair. Upon reaching the door, he took a moment to pray before crossing it, leading the congregation of over six thousand individuals present, alongside another twenty-five thousand who were gathered outside, watching the event on large screens.
"Entriamo nel tempo della misericordia e del perdono, perché a ogni uomo e a ogni donna sia dischiusa la via della speranza che non delude," Pope Francis stated as he opened the Holy Door, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and the welcoming spirit of the Jubilee year.
The circumstances surrounding this year’s celebrations were notable. Security measures were heightened, following recent incidents elsewhere, designations for the area around St. Peter's as secure with police forces comprising metal detectors, barriers, drone prevention devices, and sharpshooters positioned atop buildings. These precautions ensured the safety of pilgrims as they gathered for this significant moment.
Events on the ground confirmed the tactical advantages of increased security; reports from the Ares 118 medical team indicated minor interventions were made for those requiring attention during the gathering. Fortunately, all incidents were handled without necessitating hospitalizations.
Contemporary observances surrounding the Jubilee have evolved. Historical iterations of the Holy Year began with Pope Boniface VIII’s declaration for every century, modified over the years to occur every 25 years, with special versions like the one held for the Year of Mercy. This year’s Jubilee is anticipated to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome, culminating on January 6, 2026, with the closing of the Holy Door.
Following the opening of the Holy Door, Pope Francis led the Christmas Mass, where he once more highlighted various struggles facing humanity today. Reflecting on the prevailing hardships, he stated, "Ci sono tante desolazioni: pensiamo alle guerre, ai bambini mitragliati, alle bombe sulle scuole e gli ospedali," drawing attention to the pressing issues of warfare and violence affecting vulnerable populations.
Looking forward, the Pope is set to celebrate mass at Rebibbia prison, demonstrating his commitment to social outreach. This Jubilee promises not only religious significance but also serves as the backdrop for various social campaigns and initiatives aimed at restoring hope and transformation globally.
Indeed, the Holy Door's opening on Christmas night is symbolic of renewal—a passageway to mercy, offering all believers the opportunity to reflect on their faith's hope during the coming year.
With the deliberate introduction of modern elements to the Jubilee celebrations, including multimedia tools and initiatives aimed at youths and marginalized communities, the Vatican is making concerted efforts to bring the message of hope to the forefront of contemporary society.
At its core, the Jubilee serves as a call to action for everyone. It beckons all to participate in both the personal and collective mission to usher hope where desolation reigns and to nurture the promises of joy and peace, aligning with the Gospel's teachings.
Through the collective participation, the Jubilee 2025 stands poised to be more than just commemorative—it is envisioned as transformative for individuals and communities alike, culminating with the closing of the Holy Door next January, bringing to fruition this beautiful chapter of faith.
