Welcome to a world of hope and forgiveness, where Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, sheds light on the significance of the upcoming Jubilee Year. In a recent engagement at the Rimini Meeting, he delved into the essence of hope and how indulgence embodies God’s forgiveness, a gift that cannot be traded or profited from, as there is nothing to buy.
As we eagerly await the 2025 Jubilee, Archbishop Fisichella emphasizes the pivotal role of hope and forgiveness. These two words encapsulate the heart of the Holy Year proclaimed by Pope Francis through the Bull of Indiction “Spes non confundit” (Hope does not disappoint).
Hope is not just a concept but a transformative force that drives believers to navigate life with faith and love. Archbishop Fisichella underscores that hope is not passive but calls for action, urging us to embody hope through tangible acts of giving and participation, especially in times tainted with rampant violence.
Understanding Indulgence as God’s Gift of Forgiveness
Archbishop Fisichella challenges the notion of “profiting from indulgence,” stressing that indulgence is not a commodity to be exploited. It is a divine gift of forgiveness, a symbol of God’s boundless grace. The Jubilee serves as a poignant reminder of God’s mercy and the transformative power of forgiveness in shaping a brighter future.
As Pope Francis articulates in the Bull of Indiction, forgiveness does not alter the past but paves the way for a hopeful future. In a world overshadowed by resentment and vengeance, the Jubilee stands as a beacon of God’s unfathomable mercy. Forgiveness is not earned but received through acts of pilgrimage, faith, and charity, underscoring the profound experience of encountering God’s love.
Embracing the Gospel’s Beauty
As the preparations for the Jubilee intensify, Archbishop Fisichella draws parallels between the grand event and the Olympics, highlighting the unseen efforts that culminate in a transformative experience. Beyond the logistical intricacies, he envisions the Church embracing its responsibility to share the beauty of the Gospel with the world, making the Jubilee a unique platform for evangelization.
Mayor of Rome on Jubilee Preparations
Joining the conversation via video link, Jubilee Commissioner Roberto Gualtieri and Rome’s Mayor, underscores the significance of the Holy Year as a spiritual challenge and an opportunity for communal growth. With expectations soaring for millions of pilgrims flocking to Rome, the city gears up to embody Pope Francis’ values of solidarity, inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and gracious hospitality.
As we anticipate the transformative journey of the 2025 Jubilee, let us hold onto hope and embrace the profound gift of forgiveness as we prepare to embark on a collective pilgrimage towards a brighter future.
