Pope Opens 2025 Holy Year Focused on Hope and Trust as Rome Prepares for Millions

The 2025 Holy Year, centered on the themes of hope and trust, officially began on Christmas Eve with Pope Francis opening the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. This sacred event marks the start of a year expected to attract over 30 million pilgrims to Rome, despite ongoing preparations and enhanced security measures in the Italian capital.

The tradition of the Holy Year dates back to 1300, offering pilgrims the opportunity to receive indulgences—referred to as the forgiveness of sins—by passing through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica or one of the three doors at the other Papal Basilicas. For Pope Francis, this is his second Jubilee, following the 2015 Holy Year, and a continuation of a spiritual practice deeply rooted in the Catholic faith.

Significantly, the 2025 Holy Year introduces a novel aspect: Pope Francis will open a fifth Holy Door in a Roman prison, marking the first time such an act has been included in Jubilee observances. This gesture extends the Holy Year’s message of hope and trust to incarcerated individuals, encouraging them “to look to the future with renewed confidence.”

The opening ceremony drew approximately 7,000 faithful inside St. Peter’s Basilica, with thousands more gathering in St. Peter’s Square and watching via broadcasts around the globe. The event’s universal appeal underscores the importance of the Holy Year for Catholics worldwide.

As Rome braces for the influx of millions of visitors, heightened security measures have been implemented. An additional 700 officers have been deployed to monitor the city, with advanced surveillance systems installed to safeguard key locations. This precaution follows a recent attack at a German Christmas market, which has prompted Italian authorities to increase patrols around prominent sites.

Rome’s preparations for the Holy Year have been underway for two years, with ambitious plans to enhance the city’s infrastructure. However, of the 300 public works and renovation projects planned, only a portion has been completed. Despite these challenges, the city is committed to welcoming pilgrims and ensuring their safety during this sacred period.

The Pope’s symbolic act of opening the Holy Door resonates deeply within the context of this Jubilee, as it emphasizes reconciliation and spiritual renewal. For the millions expected to visit Rome throughout the Holy Year, the experience will not only be a religious journey but also a reflection of hope, trust, and community.