Welcome to the exciting announcement of the Jubilee of Hope declared by Pope Francis on May 9, 2024, with the publication of the Bull Spes non confundit (“Hope does not disappoint” Rom 5:5). This special year, also known as a holy year, invites us to renew our connection with God, enhance our relationships with others, and transform our lives in society according to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The celebration of this Jubilee includes significant dates to mark the occasion. On December 24, the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica will be opened, followed by other important Temples in Rome. December 29 will witness the solemn opening of the Jubilee Year in cathedral churches worldwide, presided over by local bishops. The grand finale will be the liturgical celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord on January 6, 2026, with the closure of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The concept of jubilees originates from ancient customs observed in Old Testament Israel, where sabbatical years and jubilee years were celebrated. The Jubilee involved restoration of lands and goods to their original owners every fifty years, emphasizing grace, justice, and mercy.
In the New Testament, the time spent with Jesus is seen as a year of grace and salvation, offering hope, freedom, and abundant life. The theme of hope chosen for this Jubilee by Pope Francis echoes the need for optimism and faith in a world filled with despair and challenges.
As we eagerly await better days, embracing hope becomes essential for all individuals, guiding them in their pursuit of a brighter future. Let us embody hope in our actions and interactions, striving to create a world filled with justice, peace, and love.
May the Jubilee of 2025 serve as a catalyst for positive change, inspiring us in both the Catholic Church and global leadership to foster hope and build a better world for all. Let us spread hope and be beacons of light for those seeking reasons to believe in a brighter tomorrow.
Join us in embracing hope and spreading its message of love and renewal as we embark on this transformative journey together.
Mario J. Paredes is a member of the Board of Directors of the Academy of Catholic Leaders in New York
