Education
The Jubilee Year is a time for connection, compassion, and a renewed sense of purpose. Our Catholic schools will also be participating in the Jubilee Year, offering various activities for students, staff, and families.
Pope Francis has announced that 2025 will be a Jubilee Year, but what does that mean? We’ve put together some information that may help you understand the significance of this Holy Year and help you celebrate it with your family.
What exactly is a Jubilee Year?
Imagine a reset button for the soul. That's kind of what a Jubilee Year is. It has roots in the Old Testament, where every 50 years, debts were forgiven and slaves were freed – a chance for a fresh start. The Catholic Church adopted this idea, creating its own version typically every 25 years. It's a special period dedicated to spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and a deeper connection with God. A Jubilee Year offers everyone, regardless of background, an opportunity for reflection, hope, and perhaps even a personal discovery.
Why is this Jubilee Year happening?
The core idea behind a Jubilee is to encourage people to live better lives, filled with kindness, compassion, and a deeper connection to something bigger than themselves. It's a chance to hit the pause button on our busy lives and ask ourselves some important questions. Where are we going? What truly matters? How can we make the world a better place?
"Pilgrims of Hope": What does it mean?
This year's Jubilee has a special theme: 'Pilgrims of Hope.' In choosing the motto ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, Pope Francis noted that ‘We must fan the flame of hope that has been given to us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so greatly desire.’
We all need hope, that little spark that keeps us going even when things are tough. A "pilgrim" is someone on a journey, and this Jubilee reminds us that we're all on a journey through life. We're all searching for meaning and connection. "Pilgrims of Hope" means we’re on that journey together, supporting each other and looking towards a brighter future. It’s about finding hope within ourselves and sharing it with others.
What happens during a Jubilee Year?
The Jubilee officially begins with the opening of the Holy Door at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. This is a symbolic act, like opening a door to God's grace and forgiveness. Throughout the year, there will be special events, pilgrimages (spiritual journeys), and opportunities for prayer and reflection. It's a time for people to come together, share their experiences, and find common ground.
How can I get involved?
No matter your background, the Jubilee Year is a great opportunity to:
- Reflect: Take some time to think about your own life, your values, and what you want to achieve.
- Connect: Reach out to your community, help those in need, and build stronger relationships.
- Find Hope: Look for the positive in the world around you and nurture your own sense of hope.
- Learn: Explore different perspectives and learn about other cultures and beliefs.
We hope you'll join us on this journey!
