The Year of Jubilee 2025
Pilgrimage To Our Cathedrals
Noting that a fundamental element of every jubilee is “pilgrimage,” the Jubilee Churches in the city of Rome and our own Cathedrals—St. Mary of the Annunciation, Cape Girardeau, and St. Agnes, Springfield—are special places of grace, reconciliation, and hope. The Cathedral of St. Mary of the Annunciation is privileged to have a relic of the True Cross on display. Saint Agnes Cathedral will have a crucifix on display for prayer as well. I invite every family to visit one of our cathedrals for Mass, pray the “Prayer before a Crucifix,” along with the “Our Father,” “Hail Mary,” and “Glory Be” for the intentions of the Holy Father. Then, within a 20-day span, to celebrate reconciliation. —Bishop Edward M Rice.
What is a Jubilee?
“Jubilee” is the name given to a particular year. A time to re-establish a proper relationship with God, with one another, and with all of Creation.
Jubilees Throughout History
In the Catholic Church, the concept of Jubilee or ‘Holy Year’ was used to declare special years for forgiveness and reconciliation. The first Jubilee was declared by Pope Boniface VIII on 22nd February 1300 (Feast of the Chair of St. Peter), to mark the beginning of that century. He later recommended it occurring every 100 years.
Letter from Pope Francis
Letter of the Holy Father Francis for the Promotion of the New Evangelization for the Jubilee 2025.
Explainer: What are Indulgences?
(OSV News) — Have you heard of the word “indulgence” but aren’t exactly sure what it means? You’re not alone. Indulgences come with a lot of baggage. Many people—even some Catholics—consider indulgences a medieval error connected to the upheaval in the Church during the Reformation. Unfortunately, they were used wrongly at that time. Nevertheless, they remain a normal and very helpful tool at the Church’s disposal to aid an individual’s response to God’s grace.
Year of the Council
In the letter that Pope Francis wrote in preparation for the Jubilee Year of 2025, he said that “The four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, together with the Magisterium of these recent decades, will continue to provide direction and guidance to God’s holy people, so that it can press forward in its mission of bringing the joyful proclamation of the Gospel to everyone.”
Year of Prayer
After the time dedicated to reflection on the documents and the study of the fruits of the Second Vatican Council, Pope Francis has asked that 2024 be marked as a Year of Prayer to recover the desire to be in the presence of the Lord, to listen to him and adore him.
Official Jubilee 2025 Hymn
Additional Resources
All About The Jubilee Logo
Learn more about the design of the Jubilee Logo.
Official Jubilee Store
Products from the Jubilee 2025 Official Store at the Vatican are available through their online catalogue.
Catholic Apostolate Center
Find additional resources from the Catholic Apostolate Center.