The Catholic faithful in Kampala Archdiocese have in big numbers joined the Universal Church in opening the Holy Door of the Jubilee Year 2025 at Lubaga Cathedral led by the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere.

His Grace Ssemogerere in his homily asked the faithful to become pilgrims of hope as clearly stated in the theme of the Jubilee Year.

He said it is good that the opening of the holy doors in the whole world fell on the Holy Family Day, and is a symbol of journeying with Jesus Christ, the Lord.

He said that Pope Francis announced it to be a year of fruits, justice, peace and forgiveness.

The Archbishop said the Pope has been crying because of injustices, wars, torture, and mistreatment of people world over which must end because the Jubilee Year is a year of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Pope Francis officially launched the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year on Tuesday December 24th 2024 by opening the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in a ceremony on Christmas Eve. 

The symbolic act began a year-long celebration, which will run until January 6th, 2026. 

Over the next 12 months, pilgrims will pass through the large bronze Holy Door, which is normally closed.

By tradition, those who walk through it will receive a “plenary indulgence,” a special form of forgiveness for their sins. This act symbolizes the spiritual renewal and reconciliation that the Jubilee Year invites for all believers.

A Holy Year, or Jubilee, is a special occasion in the Catholic Church focused on themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal.

The 2025 Jubilee Year is especially significant, as it commemorates the 2,025th anniversary of the birth of Christ.

In Uganda, Bishops who lead the different dioceses also on Sunday ushered in the Jubilee Year by opening the doors of their respective Cathedrals.

By Gideon Peter Ssebulime

29 Dec 2024

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