In a powerful and moving gesture, Pope Francis opened a Holy Door at the Rebibbia New Complex Prison in Rome and celebrated Mass for the prisoners.
By Kielce Gussie
Explaining his decision, Pope Francis stated, “I wanted the second Holy Door I open to be here at a prison.” This marked a historic moment as the first Holy Door for the Jubilee of Hope was opened in St. Peter’s Basilica. The Pope emphasized the significance of inaugurating the Jubilee with a Holy Door at a prison for the first time ever.
Upon arrival at the Rebibbia New Complex Prison, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of opening the Door there. Standing in front of the prison’s chapel, the Church of Our Father, he expressed his desire for everyone to have the opportunity to open the doors to their hearts and embrace the unyielding nature of hope.
Open doors, open hearts
After passing through the Holy Door himself, the Pope led Mass in the church. During his homily, Pope Francis emphasized the symbolism of “a beautiful gesture of opening,” encouraging the prisoners to not only open physical doors but also their hearts. He stressed that true brotherhood comes from open hearts.
The Pope warned against closed, hardened hearts that prevent us from truly living. He spoke of the grace bestowed upon us during the Jubilee, enabling us to open our hearts to hope even in the face of adversity.
Hope is an anchor
Comparing hope to an anchor securely tied on the shore, Pope Francis acknowledged that the rope may be tough to handle at times. However, he reassured that hope acts as a guiding force, propelling us forward as there is always something ahead.
Don’t leave it half-closed
The Pope cautioned against closed or half-closed hearts that lead to a loss of tenderness. He urged everyone to keep their hearts open, especially in challenging situations, emphasizing the importance of embracing hope. Pope Francis challenged the prisoners to remain open to hope, assuring them that it is a skill everyone possesses.
Pope Francis concluded by reminding the audience that the Holy Door he opened symbolizes the door of our hearts. He requested prayers, emphasizing the sincerity of his own prayers for them.
Offering of gifts
At the conclusion of the Mass, prisoners and guards presented the Pope with gifts, including a miniature replica of the Holy Door crafted from wood from migrant boats. The female prisoners gifted him a basket containing oil, cookies, and ceramics.
The Prison Administration also presented Pope Francis with a painting of Christ as the Savior by former prison officer and artist Elio Lucente. In return, the Pope presented the prison with a parchment commemorating the event, symbolizing the unity and hope shared during this poignant occasion.
