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.

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