In union with Pope Francis and Catholics around the globe, the Church of Saginaw is celebrating a Jubilee of Mercy. Pope Francis announced the extraordinary jubilee dedicated to Divine Mercy earlier this year, and desires all members of the church to participate. It began on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8, 2015) and will end on the feast of Christ the King, on Nov. 20, 2016.
On Tuesday, Dec.8, Pope Francis opened the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, inaugurating the Jubilee of Mercy. Holy Doors were opened in dioceses around the world in December including in the Diocese of Saginaw. Pilgrims now have an opportunity to pass through the Holy Door, thus expressing their willingness to "enter" into the mercy and love of God. There is a Holy Door at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption and at seven designated Sacred Heart Church locations throughout the diocese. All are invited to make a pilgrimage to these locations.
The Origin of the Jubilee Year
The practice of a jubilee year has ancient roots in the Jewish tradition and evidence for it can be found in the Old Testament (for example, see Leviticus 25). The jubilee year was called every fifty years and was a time for forgiveness. It stood as a reminder of God's providence and mercy. The dedication of a year for this emphasis provided the community with a time to come back into right relationship with one another and with God. As the practice of the jubilee year was adopted into the Catholic Church, these themes of mercy, forgiveness, and solidarity continued.
Photos, FAQ's and More
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the Jubilee of Mercy
United States Catholic Conference of Bishops Resources
Photos from Year of Mercy Events in the Diocese of Saginaw
Printables and/or crafts
A Year of Mercy with Pope Francis: Daily Reflections (produced by Our Sunday Visitor)A Year of Mercy with Pope Francis: Daily Reflections (produced by Our Sunday Visitor)