Jubilee of Hope

About the Jubilee Year 2025

Pope Francis has joyfully proclaimed 2025 as an Ordinary Jubilee Year, themed "Pilgrims of Hope". In his Papal Bull, Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint), the Holy Father encourages us to “fan the flame of hope that has been given us, and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart, and far-sighted vision”1.

What is a Jubilee Year?

A Jubilee Year is celebrated by the Universal Church every 25 years. This special year is dedicated to encouraging the faithful to embark on pilgrimages, repent of their sins, forgive others' sins, and renew their focus on spiritual life. In the Hebrew tradition, as recorded in Leviticus, a Jubilee was celebrated every 50 years, marked by the freeing of slaves and the forgiveness of debts. In 1300, Pope Boniface VIII instituted the first Christian Jubilee. Since then, the Church has designated each new Jubilee as a year of grace and forgiveness, providing the faithful with an opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence1.

What is the Jubilee Indulgence?

The Jubilee Indulgence is a concrete manifestation of God's mercy, which goes beyond and transforms the boundaries of human justice. This treasury of grace entered human history in the witness of Jesus and the saints, and by living in communion with them, our hope for our own forgiveness is strengthened and becomes a certainty. The Jubilee indulgence allows us to free our hearts from the weight of sin because the reparation due for our sins is given freely and abundantly1.

How to Obtain the Jubilee Indulgence

To obtain the Jubilee Indulgence, the faithful must be truly repentant and free from any affection for sin. They must also be purified through the sacrament of penance and refreshed by Holy Communion. Additionally, they must pray for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff4.

In the context of CISVA, students, teachers, and families can participate in the Jubilee Year by engaging in spiritual practices and pilgrimages. Here are some ways to obtain the Jubilee Indulgence:

• Pilgrimages: Visit designated sacred places in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, such as Holy Rosary Cathedral, St. Jude’s Parish and Shrine, and St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Agassiz, along with the adjacent Shrine of Santo Niño de Cebu35.

• Spiritual Acts: Devoutly participate in Holy Mass, the celebration of the Word of God, the Liturgy of the Hours, the Way of the Cross, the Rosary, or a penitential celebration that includes individual confession35.

• Visiting the Needy: Make a pilgrimage to Christ present in those who are in need or difficulty, such as the sick, prisoners, lonely elderly people, or disabled individuals4.

CISVA's Role in the Jubilee Year

CISVA schools can play a significant role in fostering hope and spiritual renewal during the Jubilee Year. Here are some ways CISVA can participate:

• School Pilgrimages: Organize pilgrimages to local sacred sites or participate in virtual pilgrimages for those unable to travel.

• Spiritual Events: Host faith formation days, prayer services, and other spiritual events that align with the themes of hope and mercy.

• Community Service: Encourage students to engage in acts of charity and service, reflecting the spiritual works of mercy.

By embracing the Jubilee Year, CISVA can inspire a deeper sense of hope and spiritual growth among its students, teachers, and families.

This draft provides a framework for creating a page that aligns with the Jubilee Year 2025 and incorporates CISVA's role in promoting spiritual renewal and hope.