Pope Francis kicked off the Jubilee Year 2025 on December 24 during the traditional Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, emphasizing messages of hope against the backdrop of global struggle and violence. The ceremony was attended by around 30,000 faithful, who witnessed the ceremonial opening of the Holy Door, symbolizing the invitation for believers to receive God's grace throughout the jubilee.
The jubilee, expected to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome, is described by the Pope as not just a religious event but also a time for reflection, renewal, and action against injustice. "This is the night when the door of hope is flung open to the world; this is the night when God says to each of us: there is hope for you too!" he proclaimed, referencing the traditional themes of Christmas joy amid the challenges faced by many.
Pope Francis, who has turned 88, presided over the Mass from his wheelchair due to recent health issues. Despite this, he articulated the need for Christians to actively embody hope, urging them not to succumb to apathy or complacency. He remarked, "A hope born this night tolerates not the indolence of the comfortable nor the false prudence of the self-serving. True hope compels us to act against the evils and injustices faced by the most vulnerable."
During his homily, he highlighted the violence wrought by conflicts across the globe, without directly naming specific nations. He expressed deep sorrow about the impacts of warfare on children, saying, "Let us think of wars, children being shot, the bombs falling on schools and hospitals." This bold statement came amid tensions following Israel's military actions, which earlier led to protests from the Israeli government.
The Jubilee is not merely about forgiveness but also about actively seeking to transform society. Francis called for nation-states, particularly wealthier ones, to cancel debts owed by poorer countries, reiterations of his long-standing advocacy. "We are all called to renewal and to transforming our world—this is truly a jubilant time for our mother Earth, for nations burdened by unfair debts, and for all those imprisoned by enslavement," he declared, invoking the jubilee's spirit of reconciliation and peace.
A traditional practice during the Jubilee involves granting plenary indulgences to those who pass through the Holy Door—a significant act of faith for pilgrims. The Holy Door, remained sealed since the last jubilee, has generated excitement and anticipation for what is to come.
Throughout the year leading up to the jubilee, the Vatican has prepared extensively, investing in security measures following recent violent incidents. Approximately 700 additional security personnel have been deployed to the area alongside existing units, ensuring the safety of the millions expected to participate over the coming year. Notably, the jubilee will also maintain modern engagement strategies, including an interactive mobile app for visitors.
With the overarching theme of “Pilgrims of Hope,” the Jubilee aims to reaffirm the Church's commitment to inclusivity, reflecting the Pope's focus on environmental stewardship and community building. Notably, groups such as the LGBT+ community are encouraged to participate fully, as the motto emphasizes hospitality and welcome.
The Christmas celebration concluded with the Pope's traditional “Urbi et Orbi” message on Christmas Day, where he is expected to reiterate his call for peace. The intention is clear: to encourage humanity to look beyond their divides and work for healing—a message well-timed during tumultuous global conflicts and challenges.
Preparing us for the next year, the jubilee celebrates not only the birth of Christ, but also the enduring promise of hope. By shifting the focus from despair to action, Pope Francis invites all to engage spiritually and socially, setting the stage for what the Church hopes will be transformative experiences for millions worldwide. It remains to be seen how the jubilee will evolve and impact the lives of individuals and communities predicted to converge upon Rome, but it’s clear the call to action has been strongly sounded this Christmas Eve.
