What is a Jubilee?
A Jubilee is a special, celebratory year. In the context of the Church, it is a time for re-establishing our relationship with God, one another, and all of Creation.
How often are Jubilee Years?
The Church celebrates Jubilees every 25 years. The tradition draws its inspiration from the Old Testament wherein every 50 years saw a significant attempt to create a more just society. Jesus echoes this Old Testament call to justice when he reads from the prophet Isaiah at the synagogue in Nazareth: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” Each of us is called to play a part in establishing God’s kingdom of justice.
What is the theme of this year’s Jubilee?
This year’s theme is ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. Pope Francis wants us to think about, and be hopeful for, the planet and all who live on it. He notes: “Echoing the age-old message of the prophets, the Jubilee reminds us that the goods of the earth are not destined for a privileged few, but for everyone. The rich must be generous and not avert their eyes from the faces of their brothers and sisters in need.” (Spes non confundit #16).
What are the dates of the Jubilee?
The Jubilee began on Christmas Eve 2024 and runs until 6 January 2026.
What can we do during this special time?
The Jubilee presents us with an opportunity to turn towards God and consider the needs of others. There is the chance to engage more deeply in prayer, reflecting on the themes of hope and justice. Many will opt to take part in a pilgrimage this year, where they can embrace the power of faith and discover “the value of effort and the simplicity of life” (Spes non confundit #5). Justice is active, and we are called upon to use our gifts and talents to create a fairer world. We invite you to get involved in campaigns this Jubilee year, where you will find opportunities to create a more hope-filled world.
What does the Jubilee mean to Jesuit Missions?
Lynn McWilliams, Community Engagement Officer at Jesuit Missions: “In the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 25: 31-46) we are forcefully reminded by Jesus that how we treat the least of our brothers and sisters is paramount. As Christians we are called upon to feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, visit those in prison. The passage reminds us of how we, as Christians, are called to action in the times in which we live, however challenging they may be. The imperative is to create a more just society.
“The world today presents us with many challenges, ranging from the refugee crisis to the climate crisis. The Jubilee Year is a reminder that we are called to be people of action, that what we do matters, that we are bringers of hope.
“Here at Jesuit Missions, we recognise that the Kingdom of God has no borders. By working with our partners in places like South Sudan, India and Madagascar, we work together to create a world that Jesus will recognise; a world of peace, justice and hope.”
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