Pastor’s Commentary – A Jubilee of Hope

Pope Francis has called for a Jubilee of Hope in 2025, a significant event for the Catholic Church that aims to inspire and renew faith among believers worldwide. This Jubilee, officially proclaimed through the papal bull “Spes Non Confudit” (“Hope Does Not Disappoint”), will begin with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve 2024 and conclude on January 6, 2026. We here in the Diocese of Brooklyn will begin our celebrations on December 29, 2024 with a special Jubilee Mass celebrated by Bishop Brennan at 11 AM, a procession to St. Joseph’s Co-Cathedral, and a special Jubilee Mass in Spanish at 1:30 PM. The Jubilee of Hope is rooted in the tradition of Holy Years, which occur every 25 years, offering a time for spiritual renewal, pilgrimage, and the reception of special graces. Pope Francis has emphasized that this Jubilee is particularly focused on hope, a theme he believes is crucial in today’s world, which is often marked by despair and uncertainty. In his proclamation, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of hope as a transformative force. He urged Catholics to become “pilgrims of hope,” spreading this message through their actions and words. The Pope’s vision for the Jubilee includes not only spiritual renewal but also practical steps towards peace and reconciliation. He has called for a global ceasefire and encouraged governments to consider amnesty and reintegration programs for prisoners, reflecting the historical aspects of Jubilee years that included the forgiveness of debts and the freeing of prisoners. The Pope’s message is clear: hope is not just a passive feeling but an active commitment to building a better world. He has called on Christians to be “singers of hope” in a world that often seems overwhelmed by despair. This involves not only personal spiritual growth but also concrete actions to address social injustices, environmental degradation, and conflicts. Throughout the Jubilee year, various events and activities will be organized to foster this spirit of hope. Dioceses around the world are encouraged to hold special Masses, pilgrimages, and other religious observances. Pope Francis has also emphasized the need for the Church itself to embody hope. He reminded the faithful that the Church, as the Bride of Christ, is called to hold high the light of the Gospel and bring the fire of Jesus’ love to the world. This mission is especially important in times of darkness and difficulty, when hope can seem elusive. In preparation for the Jubilee, Pope Francis has declared 2024 a Year of Prayer. He has invited Catholics to lift up their hearts to Christ and become beacons of hope through their daily actions and decisions. This year of prayer is intended to prepare the faithful spiritually for the Jubilee, fostering a deeper connection with God and a renewed commitment to living out the Gospel message. The Jubilee of Hope is not just a religious event but a call to action for all people of goodwill. Pope Francis’ message resonates beyond the Catholic Church, inviting everyone to embrace hope and work towards a more just and peaceful world. By becoming pilgrims of hope, believers can help to transform society, bringing light to places of darkness and despair. In conclusion, the Jubilee of Hope proclaimed by Pope Francis is a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of hope in our lives. It calls on all of us to renew our faith, engage in acts of mercy and justice, and spread the message of hope to a world in need. As we prepare for this special year, let us take to heart the Pope’s call to be tangible signs of hope, working together to build a future filled with peace, love, and joy. If you have any specific aspects of the Jubilee you’d like to know more about, feel free to ask!