Peace: Pilgrims of Reconciliation and Repentance

Saturday 7th December 2024

As we reflect on the Advent theme of peace this week, we take a closer look at the importance of reconciliation and repentance in the Year of Jubilee.

This Christmas Eve, Pope Francis will initiate a Holy Year of Jubilee – a special year of grace that invites us to renew our relationship with God, each other, and all of creation.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Jubilee is the message of forgiveness and reconciliation.

This theme dates back to the earliest days of Jubilee tradition, with scriptural roots taking us back to Leviticus and the Jewish festival of the Day of Atonement.

Fr Chris Lough, our Diocesan Coordinator for the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee, explained: “After a period of repentance, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies, passing through a veil that served to provide a shield between the presence of God and his people. Here, the high priest would offer a sacrifice, seeking collective forgiveness for sins committed over the past year.

“As Christians, we believe this tradition finds fulfilment in Jesus himself, the ultimate sacrifice, who gave himself on this most sacred day in atonement for all sins. This moment, as detailed in Matthew’s Gospel, saw “the veil of the temple torn in two”, removing that divide between God and his people.”

The theme of reconciliation in the Year of Jubilee is a timely reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and his constant invitation to take up his offer of forgiveness.

We are invited to spend time this year rediscovering the joy of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, of hearing the words of absolution, and restoring our relationship with God.

Plenary Indulgence

The Year of Jubilee also offers the opportunity to obtain a Plenary Indulgence – a special grace that strengthens our wounded souls in the fight against sin. Plenary Indulgences can also be obtained on behalf of our loved ones who have died, with the possibility of obtaining two plenary indulgences in one day, when one is on behalf of someone who has died.

Conditions to obtain an indulgence are:

• Be resolved to avoid sin and live in a spirit of charity
• Go to confession
• Receive the Holy Eucharist
• Pray for the intentions of the Pope.

Designated Churches and Holy Doors

The Indulgence can also be obtained by undertaking a pilgrimage to any designated Jubilee site and spending time in prayer.

Bishop John has appointed six churches across the diocese, as well as the Cathedral’s temporary church, to be Designated Churches for the Jubilee Year. These Designated Churches provide a local alternative to the four Holy Doors situated across Rome, offering the opportunity of an indulgence and symbolising our desire to be followers of Christ: “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pastures.” (John 10:9-10).

Our Designated Churches include:

• St Mary’s, Bamber Bridge
• St Mary’s, Burnley
• St Alban’s, Blackburn
• Schoenstatt Shrine, Kearsley
• St Peter’s, Stonyhurst
• St Mary’s “The Hidden Gem”, Manchester.

For opening times, Mass times, and more information on our designated churches, please click here.

Those unable to participate in solemn celebrations, pilgrimages, or religious visits – including people who are sick, have accessibility needs, or are in prison – can also receive an Indulgence wherever they are by reciting the Our Father, the Profession of Faith in any approved form, and other prayers associated with the Holy Year.

Tagged | Catholic Church | Jubilee 2025