Get ready to mark your calendars and prepare your hearts for an extraordinary spiritual journey: the Catholic Church is set to celebrate a Jubilee Year in 2025! Beginning on Christmas Eve 2024, this sacred period promises to be transformative for Catholics around the globe. Whether you’re new to the concept of a Jubilee Year or looking to maximize your experience, here’s everything you need to know about what makes this celebration special and how you can get involved.
What is a Jubilee Year?
A Jubilee Year is a profound and sacred time in the Catholic Church, occurring every 25 years. The upcoming 2025 Jubilee will follow the last one celebrated in 2000 under Pope John Paul II.* These holy years provide a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal, allowing the faithful to engage in special events and practices aimed at deepening their faith, seeking and granting forgiveness, and expressing gratitude to God.
*Pope Francis did announce an extraordinary Jubilee in 2015, but the last ordinary Jubilee was in 2000.
A Glimpse into Jubilee History
The tradition of Jubilee Years began in 1300 when Pope Boniface VIII declared the first Holy Year amid widespread hardship. Initially envisioned as a once-in-a-century event, the frequency of Jubilee Years evolved over time. Pope Clement VI later established a 50-year cycle, Pope Urban VI proposed a 33-year cycle, and by the late 1400s, the Church settled on a 25-year interval. This rhythm of renewal continues today, offering believers regular chances for spiritual reflection and growth.