POPE Francis, the Holy Father has announced that 2025 is a Jubilee Year, which happens every 25 years.
The 2025 Jubilee Year, a Holy Year of the Catholic Church, is centered on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” As His Holiness Pope Francis so beautifully expressed it: “We must 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.”
The Jubilee began last December 24, 2024, with the official Opening of the Holy Door of Saint Peter’s Basilica, and will end on January 6, 2026, the Feast Day of Epiphany, with the Closing of the Holy Door.
The Jubilee Year is a time to re-establish a relationship with God, one another, and Creation. The theme is a call to Catholics worldwide to become “pilgrims of hope” and to share the light of their faith with others.
The Universal Church has decreed that one of several ways a Catholic can receive the special grace known as a plenary indulgence during the Jubilee Year 2025 is by making a pilgrimage. The Diocese of Dumaguete has designated nine Pilgrim Churches which serve as channels of God’s overflowing gift of Plenary Indulgences for oneself and the souls in purgatory:
1. St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral (Dumaguete)
2. St. Anthony of Padua Parish Church (Sibulan)
3. St. James the Greater Parish Church (Tanjay City)
4. Holy Child Parish Church (Jimalalud)
5. St. Augustine of Hippo Parish Church (Bacong)
6. St. Nicholas of Bari Parish Church (Siaton)
7. St. Thomas of Villanueva Parish Church (Bayawan)
8. St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church (Siquijor, Siq.)
9. Sto. Niño Parish Church (Mabinay)
Positive and hopeful in a troubled world
The world we live in today seems to be increasingly filled with uncertainty, fear, and division. With the growing threats of climate change, escalating conflicts, and an overwhelming sense of materialism creeping into every aspect of our lives, it can sometimes feel like hope is a distant memory.
It’s easy to become disillusioned and lose sight of the possibility of positive change. But even amid such troubling times, there is still room for hope.
The power of perspective
In the face of adversity, one of the most powerful tools we can possess is perspective. As the world becomes more chaotic and people seem more focused on material gain than on deeper, more meaningful values, we are challenged to remain grounded in what truly matters.
We may not be able to control the external circumstances around us, but we can control how we respond to them. And it is this response that can make all the difference.
The Bible teaches us that our attitude toward life is crucial. It reminds us to focus on the positive, even when everything around us seems negative. In Philippians 4:8, the apostle Paul writes:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
In these words, Paul urges us to focus our minds on the good, the beautiful, and the honorable, instead of becoming consumed by the negativity that surrounds us.
Hope amid despair
The threats of climate change, social injustice, and global instability are indeed real and frightening. The earth is groaning under the weight of human neglect, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the problems we face. Yet, even amid these challenges, hope remains.
In Romans 8:22-23, the apostle Paul paints a vivid picture of this tension between current suffering and future hope:
“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.”
These verses acknowledge the reality of pain and suffering in the world, but they also remind us that there is something greater to look forward to. Just as a mother endures the pain of childbirth with the knowledge that something beautiful is coming, we, too, can endure the trials of this world, knowing that God’s redemption and restoration are on the horizon.
Hope is not about denying the challenges we face, but about trusting that these challenges are not the end of the story. It’s the belief that, despite the darkness we may see, light is on its way.
Embracing gratitude and generosity
In a world where materialism often reigns, it’s essential to remember that true happiness and fulfillment don’t come from what we own, but from the relationships we nurture and the way we love others.
Jesus taught us that the greatest commandment is to love God and love our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39). When we prioritize love and kindness over wealth and possessions, we begin to reflect the hope and goodness that the world desperately needs.
In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul reminds us of the dangers of materialism and calls us to be generous:
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”
By practicing gratitude and generosity, we not only uplift ourselves but also contribute to a culture of kindness and compassion. When we live in alignment with our deepest values, we become part of a movement of hope, no matter how dark the world around us may seem.
Living with purpose and faith
Even though we face challenges, we can take comfort in the fact that God has a plan for each of us. His word assures us that we are never alone in our struggles. In Jeremiah 29:11, God declares:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
When we embrace this truth, we can move through the world with confidence, knowing that our lives have meaning and purpose. Our actions, however small, can contribute to a better world. Whether it’s through helping a neighbor, advocating for justice, or simply being kind, each step we take is part of a larger story of redemption.
A call to hope
In the face of a world that may seem more focused on division, materialism, and despair, it is important to remember that we are called to be a light. We are called to be hopeful, positive, and generous. We are called to embody the change we wish to see in the world. The problems we face are not insignificant, but they are not insurmountable either. With faith, hope, and love, we can rise above the negativity and become part of the solution.
Let us remain hopeful, for we know that even in the darkest of times, God’s love and grace are ever-present. With that, we can face the future with confidence and optimism.
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!!!
