Pope Francis has formally opened the Holy Door at Rebibbia prison, sending out a powerful message of hope and inclusion as part of the Jubilee celebrations occurring throughout 2025. This symbolic act was not just about opening doors, but about opening hearts, echoing the Pope's desire to connect with all segments of society, particularly the incarcerated.
During the ceremony, which took place on December 26, Pope Francis walked through the Holy Door by foot, rather than using the wheelchair he had relied upon during the previous opening at St. Peter's Basilica. Accompanying him was Auxiliary Bishop Benoni Ambarus of Rome. "I wanted the second Holy Door to be here, in a prison. I wanted each of us, who are here inside and out, to have the chance to open the doors of our hearts and understand hope does not disappoint," the Pope stated before entering the chapel of Rebibbia, where Mass was being held.
Approximately 300 inmates and prison staff were present for the celebration, providing the Pope with the opportunity to reach out directly to those who often feel marginalized. Italian Justice Minister Carlo Nordio and Giovanni Russo, head of the Department of Penitentiary Administration, were also among the attendees, underlining the importance of this event within the broader community.
Reflecting on the theme of hope, the Pope delivered moving remarks during his homily: "Hope never disappoints... think well about this... I too must think about it because, in dark moments, one thinks everything is finished, nothing resolves, but hope never disappoints." He painted hope as a lifeline, saying, "I like to think of hope as the anchor on the shore with us holding onto the rope securely… Do not lose hope: this is the message I want to give you, to all of us, starting with myself," directly addressing the gathered crowd.
The following days highlight the extensive calendar of Jubilee events extending throughout the forthcoming year. The opening at Rebibbia was just the beginning. On December 29, another Holy Door will be opened at St. John Lateran, followed by yet another at Santa Maria Maggiore on January 1. Over thirty significant pilgrim group events are already planned for 2025, offering opportunities for reflection and prayer across Rome.
The Pope, who has consistently emphasized the importance of hope and community engagement, aims to include everyone—from artists to prisoners, from the military to the sick—within the vision of faith unique to the Jubilee. The events slated throughout the coming months include the Jubilee of Communication from January 24 to 26, the Jubilee for the Armed Forces and Artists to follow in February, and specific events for the elderly and children later this spring. Each event promotes inclusivity, welcoming various groups to engage with their faith and the pervading message from the Vatican.
Further, as the year progresses, the events will culminate with larger gatherings, including those dedicated to youth during the World Youth Day at the end of July. These celebrations reinforce the need to uplift marginalized voices and restore community faith.
Both Jubilee milestones show Pope Francis not only as the head of the Catholic Church but also as a liaison to all individuals. His insistence on accessibility—through symbols like the Holy Door—reflects his commitment to uniting communities, transcending barriers, and spreading messages of hope, which resonate universally.
Attendees can expect each gathering to last two to three days, leading to anticipated discussions aimed at bridging gaps among diverse populations. The final gathering promises to tie back to Pope Francis's overarching message about hope and community recovery.
Whether it’s ending the year with reflections from the inmates at St. Peter's on December 14 or these early gatherings, the Jubilee seeks to establish pathways for forgiveness and connection. Events focused on the marginalized, along with discussions on improving community relationships, will shape the spirit of these gatherings.
Beyond symbolic openings, the Pope's Jubilee aims for actionable steps toward unity and healing, providing the broader community—especially those feeling isolated or broken—a sense of belonging and hope for the future. With invitations for everyone to partake, the Jubilee becomes more than just ceremonial; it transforms each door opened, offering individuals new paths to embrace their faith and the essence of shared humanity.
