The 2025 Jubilee Year officially began on December 24, 2024 with the Opening of the Holy Door of the Papal Basilica of St. Peter by the Holy Father. Archbishop Richard Henning then officially opened the Jubilee Year in Boston on December 29, 2024 at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
A Jubilee Year is a sacred tradition that invites the faithful to experience God’s mercy, renewal, and make a spiritual pilgrimage. Pope Francis has called this Jubilee a “Year of Hope,” encouraging Catholics worldwide to embrace the blessings of faith, reconciliation, and charity.
The Tradition of the Jubilee Year
The concept of a Jubilee Year is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, originating in the Old Testament (Leviticus 25:10) as a time of forgiveness, liberation, and rest. In the Christian tradition, the first Jubilee Year was proclaimed in 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII, and it has since been observed every 25 years (with occasional extraordinary Jubilees).
Jubilees are marked by a special invitation to conversion, indulgences, and pilgrimage. The Church designates specific holy sites as places of pilgrimage where the faithful can deepen their spiritual journey. Pilgrims are encouraged to receive the sacraments, engage in acts of charity, and seek God’s mercy during this sacred time.
Read More About Jubilees Throughout History
St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine: A Jubilee Pilgrimage Church
As part of the 2025 Jubilee, the Archdiocese of Boston has designated several churches as Jubilee Pilgrimage Churches, including St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine. This recognition provides a unique opportunity for the faithful to visit St. Clement and participate in the rich spiritual graces of the Jubilee.
Though the only Holy Doors are in Rome this year, pilgrims to St. Clement will be able to participate in other acts of spiritual renewal to encounter God’s mercy. In addition to Eucharistic Adoration and Mass, visitors are encouraged to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist, fulfilling the conditions for a plenary indulgence.
How to Participate in the 2025 Jubilee Year
The Jubilee Year is an invitation for all Catholics to grow in faith and experience God’s boundless mercy. Here are some ways to participate:
- Make a pilgrimage to a designated Jubilee church, such as St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine, to receive the special graces of this holy year.
- Engage in acts of charity and service, embodying the spirit of hope and renewal.
- Deepen your prayer life through the Eucharist, Adoration, and personal devotion.
- Seek reconciliation through the Sacrament of Confession, embracing God’s mercy and forgiveness.
To learn more about the 2025 Jubilee Year and pilgrimage opportunities in Boston, visit the Archdiocese of Boston’s official Jubilee website.
As we embark on this sacred journey, may the 2025 Jubilee Year be a time of renewal, grace, and deeper communion with Christ. We invite you to join us at St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine as we walk together in faith and hope.
Learn more about Jubilee at St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine
I am happy to know this for St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine. I am currently in Florida enjoying daily Mass. I am not able to attend jubilee celebration but thank you for keeping me in the loop! Many blessings to all of you.
Thank you for your support, Janice! Have a blessed Lent.
-OMV