As part of the celebrations for the 2025 Jubilee Year, thousands of pilgrims from around the globe have begun passing through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. This symbolic act, which marks the start of the Jubilee, is a tradition that symbolizes spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and a fresh commitment to faith.
The Holy Door, which is only opened during Jubilee Years, was ceremonially unsealed earlier this month, inviting Catholics and visitors alike to make a pilgrimage through it. Images captured show a diverse crowd of faithful from various nations, including Italy, the United States, Brazil, Poland, and many others, united in this sacred journey.
Pilgrims, adorned with national flags, symbols of their countries, and religious icons, waited in long queues, reflecting the universal call of the Church to come together in hope and unity. The atmosphere was one of solemnity and joy, with many expressing their prayers for peace, healing, and reconciliation as they stepped through the door.
In interviews, pilgrims shared their motivations, ranging from seeking personal forgiveness to praying for global peace, especially in conflict zones. The act of passing through the Holy Door is considered an indulgence, a remission of temporal punishment due to sin, underlining the Jubilee’s theme of mercy.
The event also serves as a reminder of the Catholic Church’s global reach and its role in fostering spiritual and communal bonds. As the Jubilee Year progresses, more pilgrims are expected to converge on Rome, turning St. Peter’s Square and its surrounding areas into a melting pot of cultures, languages, and spiritual aspirations.
