The Pope has opened and crossed the Holy Door, starting the Jubilee dedicated to hope. The ceremony was attended by several concelebrants and faithful, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The images of the event were broadcast throughout the world, with Pope Francis approaching the Holy Door in a wheelchair, opening the Door in silence and praying. After him, cardinals, bishops and representatives of the people of God from the five continents crossed the threshold, launching a message of peace and renewal.
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Words of the Pope
During the Christmas Mass, Pope Francis declared: “This is the night in which the door of hope has opened wide on the world. This is the night in which God says to each one of us: there is hope for you too!” He stressed the importance of not losing hope, inviting the faithful to set out “without delay” to welcome this gift.
The Pontiff urged people to bring hope to the places affected by war, reflecting on the pain of the populations and on the task of each person to bring hope back where it has been lost. He stated: “To all of us, the gift and the commitment to bring hope where it has been lost”.
Pilgrims and Faithful to St. Peter
Twenty-five thousand faithful were present in St. Peter's Square for the official opening of the Jubilee, with six thousand people inside the Basilica. From Christmas morning, the Holy Door will be accessible to all. Many pilgrims, even from outside Rome, have waited a long time to participate in the event, sharing feelings of emotion and desire to be part of this historic celebration.
What's New This Year
Among this year's novelties, a webcam on the Holy Door will allow those who cannot travel to virtually cross it. Furthermore, on December 26, Pope Francesco will symbolically open a Holy Door in the Rebibbia prison, an unprecedented event in the history of the Holy Years. Other openings will follow in various basilicas in Rome.
Article published on 25 December 2024 - 07:36
The Pope made a very important ceremony and I think it is beautiful to see so many faithful together for hope. The open Holy Door is a symbol of peace, but there are also problems around the world that cannot be ignored.