Religious Dimension
2025 is the Year of Jubilee - Pilgrims of Hope. Pope Francis has said that; 'Whether through local pilgrimage, community events, or spiritual acts at home, all are invited to be part of this remarkable journey of renewal and trust in the Gospel of Christ'. He also officially declared 2025 a Year of Jubilee with a papal bull, titled “Spes Non Confudit,” meaning “Hope Does Not Disappoint.” The Jubilee Year began with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica on Christmas Eve 2024.
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The Holy Father has announced that 2025 will be a Jubilee Year, something which happens every 25 years. The theme for Jubilee 2025 is “Pilgrims of Hope,” and it will be a year of hope for a world suffering the impacts of war, the ongoing effects of COVID-19 pandemic, and the climate crisis.
Our staff and students will be engaging in a number of learning opportunities around this very special occasion.
2025 will be a highly significant year for the Catholic Church. Several key anniversaries and events reflect the Church's mission and commitment to social and environmental issues. By Laura King
The year 2025 will be a significant one for the Catholic Church, with several major anniversaries celebrating pivotal moments in its history and mission.
Global Jubilee Year: A global Jubilee, also known as a Holy Year, has been declared by the Vatican. These years are typically marked by a call for spiritual renewal, reconciliation, and penance, as well as a special emphasis on mercy. It is a time for pilgrims to visit significant Catholic sites, including the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and receive a plenary indulgence.
Among the most notable anniversaries is the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea (325), which produced the Nicene Creed, a central tenet of Christian faith. This milestone will provide an opportunity for reflection on the lasting theological and historical impact of the Council.
The Church will also commemorate the 800th anniversary of the Canticle of the Creatures by St Francis of Assisi (1225), a prayer that highlights the deep connection between spirituality and the natural world, in line with the Church’s current ecological priorities.
Another milestone is the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015), which called for urgent action on climate change and environmental justice. The anniversary will be marked by a renewed focus on the Laudato Si’ Movement, which has mobilised global efforts toward ecological sustainability.
Additionally, the 400th anniversary of St Vincent de Paul's death (1660) will be observed, celebrating his legacy of service to the poor, while the 50th anniversary of the Synod on the Family (1975) will prompt reflection on the Church’s evolving approach to family life.
Other anniversaries include the 25th anniversary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1995), and the 10th anniversary of the Laudato Si’ Movement (2015), both marking influential resources in shaping Catholic doctrine and global outreach.
With these key milestones, 2025 promises to be a year of deep reflection and renewed commitment for the Catholic Church worldwide.