Themes of the 2025 Jubilee

Hope: The Central Theme

The main theme of the 2025 Jubilee is hope, encapsulated in the motto Spes Non Confundit ("Hope does not disappoint"), inspired by the Letter to the Romans (Rom 5:5). In a world rife with uncertainties, conflicts, and global crises, Christian hope shines as a guiding beacon for the faithful in their pursuit of peace and reconciliation. This Jubilee will be an opportune time to rediscover the enduring strength of hope, unshakable because it is rooted in the love of God, revealed through the death and resurrection of Christ.

The pilgrimage to Rome, including passing through the Holy Door in the four great basilicas — St. Peter's in Vatican, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls — symbolizes the journey of hope each believer is called to embark on during the Holy Year. This pilgrimage transcends a mere physical journey, embodying a spiritual quest toward reconciliation and inner peace.

Explore the significance of the Holy Door and its ritual as a symbol of hope.

Mercy: The Heart of the Jubilee

Mercy, another fundamental theme of the Holy Year 2025, was deeply emphasized by Pope Francis during the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2016. He invited the faithful to rediscover the mercy of God as the cornerstone of their spiritual lives. In 2025, mercy will once again take center stage in reflections and celebrations, urging the faithful to practice forgiveness concretely through the sacrament of Reconciliation.

The plenary indulgence — a distinct practice in Catholic spirituality that provides complete remission of the temporal punishments for sins — is closely linked to the theme of mercy. Through confession, Eucharistic communion, and prayer for the Pope’s intentions, pilgrims can tangibly experience the mercy of God, achieving liberation from the burdens of confessed sins.

Learn how to secure a plenary indulgence during the Jubilee and fully embrace the experience of mercy.

Social Justice and Commitment to Peace

Reflecting on social justice and the commitment to peace will also be integral during the Holy Year 2025. Pope Francis frequently underscores the importance of promoting a just and sustainable economy that prioritizes the dignity of every individual. Throughout the Jubilee, the faithful are encouraged to consider how they can contribute to creating a more equitable world where the rights of the poor and vulnerable are upheld and championed.

The pilgrimage to Rome, and in particular the visit to St. Peter's Basilica, represents an opportunity for the faithful to renew their commitment to peace and justice, inspired by the example of the saints and martyrs who have courageously and consistently borne witness to their faith.

To learn more about the significance of St. Peter's Basilica during the Jubilee and the events that will take place there, visit our dedicated guide.

The Unity of the Church and Ecumenism

A pivotal theme of the 2025 Jubilee is the unity of the Church and ecumenism. In a world rife with divisions and conflicts, the Jubilee presents a unique opportunity to foster unity among all Christians. Pope Francis has frequently highlighted the importance of a shared path among various Christian denominations, and the Jubilee will be a crucial time to deepen ecumenical dialogue and enhance reconciliation.

The ecumenical celebrations in Rome during the Holy Year are moments of shared prayer and reflection among Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants, underscoring the importance of unity in diversity.

Explore ways to actively engage in the Jubilee's ecumenical events and promote the unity of the Church.

Conclusion

The 2025 Jubilee will be a year filled with hope, mercy, justice, and unity, a period of grace where the faithful are called to rejuvenate their faith and strive for a better world. Through the pilgrimage to Rome, crossing the Holy Door, and participating in Jubilee events, Catholics worldwide will have the opportunity to undergo a deeply transformative and spiritually enriching experience.

To best prepare for the Jubilee, delve into our guide on how to spiritually prepare for this significant time. This resource will assist you in fully understanding the spiritual themes of the Jubilee and experiencing a year of profound renewal and reconciliation.