Once every 25 years, the epicenter of the Catholic faith becomes an even greater pilgrimage destination for the world’s faithful, with a Holy Year. Jubilees have been part of Church tradition since the 1300’s, held at 25-year intervals so that every generation can participate in at least one Holy Year.
Jubilee 2025 is celebrated throughout Rome, the Vatican City and even across Italy, starting at Christmas 2024 and ending at Epiphany (after the 12 days of Christmas; January 6), 2026. This generation’s Jubilee is themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” emphasizing mercy and forgiveness, and like previous Jubilees, offers attendees the opportunity for prayer, reflection, a renewal of faith and cleansing of sins.
Rome’s 2025 Jubilee is expected to attract over 30 million people. And whether or not you’re Catholic, you will want to be a part of this year-long celebration. In addition to essential Jubilee activities that immerse you in the spiritual and cultural experience of this Holy Year, here’s how to make the most of your visit to Rome during Jubilee.
1. Pass Through the Holy Doors
This may be the most iconic symbol and activity of the Jubilee. Pilgrims and visitors visit Rome’s four major basilicas to pass through their Holy Doors, symbolizing a spiritual journey, a cleansing of past sins and a renewal of faith.
The doors are usually sealed with mortar. Every 25 years, they are ceremoniously opened just for Jubilee.
The 2025 Jubilee symbolically began on December 24, 2024, when Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. During the 12 days of Christmas, all four Holy Doors were opened: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran Basilica, Basilica of Saint Mary Major, ending in the fourth Basilica, St. Paul Outside the Walls, on January 5, 2025, for the Jubilee’s pilgrims to pass through.
The doors will be resealed at the end of the Holy Year for another quarter century.
2. Take the Pilgrimage of the Seven Churches
In a spiritual journey that is also physical and historical, visitors can follow a route that dates back to the 16th century: a 15 ½ mile walk that includes the four basilicas of the Holy Doors, where pilgrims pass through, as well as three additional churches: St. Lawrence Outside the Walls, Holy Cross in Jerusalem, and St. Sebastian Outside the Walls.
3. Attend Special Jubilee Events
4. Explore Vatican City
5. Participate in Papal Audiences and Masses
6. Engage in Acts of Mercy
Volunteer opportunities abound during Jubilee years, such as assisting pilgrims or participating in charitable initiatives in local churches and organizations.
7. Explore Religious and Historical Sites
8. Discover Jubilee Art and Exhibitions
Visit exhibitions or installations created to celebrate the Jubilee, which often explores themes of hope, mercy, and faith.
9. Attend Nighttime Events
Some basilicas and historic sites host evening prayer services, concerts, or illuminations, creating a unique ambiance for reflection
10. Enjoy Rome’s Culinary and Cultural Delights
Indulge in Roman specialties like cacio e pepe, carciofi alla romana, and gelato while taking breaks from your spiritual journey.
By blending spiritual activities with Rome’s cultural richness, you can make your Jubilee 2025 experience both meaningful and memorable!
Images: Getty
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by Lynn on 01/23/2025 in Local Events
Sue Lamb
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