Cris Thompson
Just about everyone has seen in the news that Pope Francis proclaimed 2025 as a Jubilee Holy Year, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” But what exactly is a Jubilee Year? Thanks to Robson Ranch Catholic Community (RRCC) President Joan Bridges, a group of Catholic residents learned about the history of this special year at the Feb. 11 meeting.
The word “jubilee” comes from the Hebrew word “yobel,” which refers to the ram’s horn used as a trumpet to announce the event. In the Old Testament, God told Moses that every 50th year was to be set aside for the return of absent members to their households, the restoration of land to its owners, the release of Hebrew slaves, and the forgiveness of debts. It was a year when the land was also “rested” (crops were not sowed or harvested). A Jubilee Year is one of forgiveness and mercy and a reminder that everything belongs to God.
This is the 28th Jubilee Year in Christian time. The first Jubilee was proclaimed by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300 AD for those who made a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The tradition of opening a Jubilee Holy Door started in the 15th century. Today, Holy Doors in Rome’s four major basilicas are opened every Jubilee Year. Doors are an important symbol for Christians, an indication that we are entering a new life with Jesus Christ.
Rome is the central hub of celebrations, and the city is expecting 30 million pilgrims to visit this year. For those not able to travel to the Eternal City, there are local opportunities for pilgrimage. Five Catholic churches in the Fort Worth Diocese have been declared by Bishop Olson as pilgrimage sites: St Patrick Cathedral (Fort Worth), Our Lady of Guadalupe (Fort Worth), St Philip the Apostle (Flower Mound), Immaculate Conception (Wichita Falls), and Sacred Heart (Comanche).
A Jubilee Year should call Christians to action: “The theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ emphasizes the journey of faith and the role of hope in navigating life’s challenges. As part of this theme, Catholics are encouraged to trust in God’s providence and extend that hope to others.”
A Jubilee Pilgrimage to St. Philips Catholic Church (Flower Mound) will be held on March 14. Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. followed by a tour by Fr. Ray McDaniel. There will be time to complete the Plenary indulgence requirements before brunch at Morning Edition (at your expense). RSVP to Joan Bridges at 303-249-1888 or [email protected] by March 12.
The Catholic Community welcomes all Robson Ranch residents to attend our events. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Other upcoming events include a matinee movie on Tuesday, March 18: Bakhita: From Slave to Saint, and our Spring Social on Saturday, May 3, at 6:30 p.m. RRCC activities also include a book club, potluck dinners, field trips, and supporting Our Daily Bread ministry. For more information, please contact Joan Bridges.