Pope Francis inaugurated the highly anticipated 2025 Jubilee of the Catholic Church on Tuesday, Christmas Eve, by opening the 'Holy Door' of St Peter's Basilica, marking the beginning of the year-long celebration expected to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome. The event, held at 19:00 Italian time, was attended by thousands of faithful who gathered to witness the historical act.
Among the dignitaries present was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who participated as Pope Francis symbolically opened the door. The Pope emphasized the significance of the moment, stating, "The opening of the Holy Door on Christmas Eve symbolizes a passage—an Easter of renewal—to enter the new life offered to us through the encounter with Christ," as reported via X.
Over the next 12 months, Catholics will have the opportunity to obtain a 'plenary indulgence' for their sins by walking through the Holy Door. The opening also reflects the Jubilee’s theme of "Pilgrims of Hope," aimed at inviting individuals to seek renewal and faith.
Thousands observed the ceremony not just inside St Peter's Basilica, but also via large screens set up in St Peter's Square, and through broadcasts around the world. Some 7,000 attendees were present for the inaugural moment live within the basilica.
One first-time visitor to Rome, Lisbeth Dembele, shared her excitement about the event, saying, "It’s my first time in Rome and for me, to be here at the Vatican, I feel already blessed."
The Jubilee will extend beyond the central basilica, as doors will also be opened at Rome's Rebibbia prison and at three other major basilicas: St John Lateran, St Mary Major, and St Paul Outside the Walls, some of which have already undergone extensive renovations to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors throughout the year.
The historical significance of the Holy Door dates back to its first use for the Jubilee of 1450, with the tradition formalized over centuries, aimed at guiding the faithful through acts of penance toward absolution. This year marks the second Jubilee led by Pope Francis, following the previous event held in 2016.
"During the Holy Year, may the light of Christian hope illumine every man and woman, as a message of God’s love addressed to all!" the Pope proclaimed during his homily. His previous comments have also reflected on the need for hope amid conflict and turmoil, signaling the global struggles many face.
Heightened security measures are being implemented throughout Rome, with 700 additional officers deployed to safeguard both the basilica and surrounding areas, particularly after recent attacks across Europe. The city has been preparing for the expected congestion, with numerous public works and renovation projects just completing their final stages to optimize the experience for pilgrims.
Architectural highlights like the Trevi Fountain and other historic sites have undergone major cleaning operations, showcasing the city’s effort to present itself at its finest to visitors.
Pope Francis is also set to open his cathedral's Holy Door on December 29 and will continue his homily during the Christmas Day Mass, conveying his message of peace and hope on both local and global levels.
Following the opening of these holy doors, the Vatican has introduced modern conveniences set for the Jubilee, including online pilgrim registration and multilingual apps to guide visitors through the various religious events planned over the next 12 months. A mascot named Luce, inspired by Japanese anime, has even been created to engage younger audiences.
The Jubilee has reached out not only to devout Catholics but also to various groups including those advocating for LGBTQ acceptance, reflecting Pope Francis's broader inclusive vision for the Church. Encouraging participation from diverse communities not only diversifies the pilgrimage experience but embodies the theme of hope throughout this religious milestone.
The current Jubilee, theme around hope and trust, builds on centuries of tradition dating back to the first Holy Year declared by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300. This year's events invite both reflection and celebration, as the Church continues its mission of reconciliation and compassion across the globe.
By kicking off the 2025 Jubilee, Pope Francis has led the faithful through the symbolic Holy Door, calling on each individual to be "pilgrims of hope" and embrace the light of faith even during challenging times. The official closing of the Holy Door is scheduled for January 6, 2026, during the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, marking the culmination of a year filled with religious fervor and renewal.
