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. The churches are located in different areas of the diocese to encourage all people to make the journey.
In the Diocese of Saginaw, Holy Doors were opened during the weekend of Dec. 12 and 13 at the following churches. The Holy Doors will remain open throughout the remainder of the jubilee year:
- Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, 615 Hoyt Ave., Saginaw
- Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Church, 302 S. Kinney Blvd., Mount Pleasant
- Sacred Heart Church, St. Hubert Parish, 311 Whitelam St., Bad Axe
- Sacred Heart Church, Ss. Francis & Clare Parish, 12157 Church St., Birch Run
- Sacred Heart Church, St. Christopher Parish, 140 Atwood St., Caro
- Sacred Heart Church, Sacred Heart Parish, 300 N. Silverleaf St., Gladwin
- Sacred Heart Church, Prince of Peace Parish, 2510 S. Fraser Rd., Kawkawlin
- Sacred Heart Church, St. John XXIII Parish, 445 S. Midland St., Merrill
The establishment of the Holy Doors traces its roots back to early Christians who used the practice as a public sign of penance before they could return to their faith community. Today, pilgrims who enter through these doors during a Holy Year are making a public acknowledgment of turning away from sin and a recommitment to their faith.
More information about the Year of Mercy and about indulgences can be found here.