31 October 2024

The opening of the Holy Doors in the papal basilicas

From 24 December, pilgrims from all over the world can pass through the Holy Doors of the Basilicas of Rome, a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and spiritual renewal for the Holy Year

The Jubilee of 2025, with the theme "Pilgrims of Hope", represents a moment of profound spiritual significance for the Church and the faithful. During the Holy Year, the celebrated Holy Doors of Rome's four main papal basilicas (St. Peter's in the Vatican, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls) are open to welcome pilgrims on a journey of conversion and reconciliation with God, through plenary indulgence.

The opening calendar includes the beginning of the Jubilee with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter's on December 24, 2024, followed by that of St. John Lateran on December 29, 2024, St. Mary Major on January 1, 2025 and St. Paul Outside the Walls on January 5, 2025.

This year, Pope Francis has decided to open a Holy Door also in the Rebibbia prison, as a gesture of closeness to the prisoners, emphasizing the merciful character of the Jubilee.

Passing through the Holy Door symbolizes the entrance into a new spiritual dimension and a path to salvation. The gesture recalls the words of Jesus:

"I am the door; if anyone enters through me, he will be saved" (Jn 10:9).

This rite represents a moment of deep communion with Christ and the Church, offering the pilgrim a unique opportunity for renewal of faith.

The four Papal basilicas of Rome

St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican

Located in the heart of Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the holiest places for Christianity, built over the tomb of the apostle Peter. Its imposing dome and sumptuous architecture are the symbol of the universal Church. The opening of its Holy Door marks the official beginning of the Jubilee, welcoming millions of pilgrims from all over the world.

Basilica of St. John Lateran

Known as the Pope's Cathedral, St. John Lateran is the oldest basilica and the first seat of the bishop of Rome. It is here that papal authority is celebrated, and it is considered the "mother" of all churches.

Crossing its Holy Door is a symbol of communion with the papal see

and adherence to the Catholic faith.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the most important churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is known for the beauty of its mosaics and the strong link with Marian devotion. The Holy Door of the Basilica represents Mary's maternal welcome, a spiritual guide towards reconciliation and peace.

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

Located along the Via Ostiense, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is built on the burial site of the Apostle Paul. Passing through the Holy Door of St. Paul is a reminder of the universal mission of the Church and the witness of faith, represented by the Apostle to the Gentiles.

DOWNLOAD THE JUBILEE PATH OF THE HOLY DOORS

Unlike some past Jubilees, for 2025 there are no Holy Doors planned in Italian cathedrals outside of Rome, making the pilgrimage to the papal basilicas a unique experience to fully experience the Holy Year. This choice reaffirms the importance of Rome as the center of Christianity and encourages the faithful to make a pilgrimage to the eternal city to participate in this important event of grace and renewal.

By the Editorial staff of Avion Tourism Magazine

Source of information www.iubilaeum2025.va

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