Pope Francis inaugurated the Holy Year at Rome’s main prison, bringing a message of hope to inmates and involving them in the Catholic Church’s once-every-quarter-century celebration. The Holy Year is expected to draw around 32 million pilgrims to Rome. Francis reenacted the gesture of opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica by knocking on the chapel door at Rebibbia prison and walking across the threshold.
The Jubilee year, a tradition dating back to 1300 and occurring every 25 years, officially commenced with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. Francis emphasized the importance of hope for the 2025 Jubilee and highlighted the significance of prisoners in this celebration. The Jubilee will culminate in a special Mass for inmates at St. Peter's on December 14, 2025.
Prison ministry has been a focal point for Francis, who believes in offering hope to those serving prison sentences. In Italy, where prison overcrowding and inmate suicides are at record highs, the need for hope is particularly acute. According to the Antigone Association, 88 prisoners took their lives in Italian prisons in 2024, the highest number on record, with the inmate population exceeding capacity by 132%.
In his homily at Rebibbia, Francis likened hope to an anchor, urging prisoners to hold onto it steadfastly. Despite the challenges they face, he encouraged them never to let go of the rope of hope. The pope’s visit to Rebibbia marked the conclusion of a week of significant events, including Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Christmas Day blessing.
As Francis looks ahead to a busy 2025, with a packed calendar of Jubilee events, his message of hope and inclusivity remains central. The year will feature special Jubilee Masses for various groups, including adolescents, migrants, teachers, and law enforcement. While a trip to Turkey in May to commemorate the Council of Nicaea is being considered, the pope's focus on spreading hope and compassion is unwavering.
