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Pope Francis To Open Historic ‘Holy Door’ In Rome’s Rebibbia Prison, Bringing Message Of Hope To Inmates Worldwide

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Photo Credit: DioceseMontreal.org

By Chioma Polok

Pope Francis will open a “Holy Door” at Rome’s Rebibbia prison on December 26, the feast day of St. Stephen. This symbolic act will mark the second of five Holy Doors the Pope will inaugurate during the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, which spans from Christmas Eve 2024 to the feast of the Epiphany on January 6, 2026.

According to Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, the prison Holy Door serves as a “symbol of all the prisons scattered around the world.” Highlighting the Pope’s May 9 bull of indiction *Spes Non Confundit* (“Hope Does Not Disappoint”), Fisichella emphasized the jubilee’s mission to be “tangible signs of hope” for those in difficult circumstances. “I think of prisoners who, deprived of their freedom, daily feel the harshness of detention and its restrictions, lack of affection, and, in more than a few cases, lack of respect,” he noted.

CNA reports that in a significant appeal, Pope Francis is urging governments worldwide to implement initiatives to restore dignity to prisoners. He calls for actions that “go hand in hand with a concrete commitment to respect for the law” and proposes “forms of amnesty or pardon” to support prisoners in regaining “confidence in themselves and society” and facilitate their reintegration into communities.

Italy has already responded, becoming the first country to sign an “amnesty” agreement with the Vatican on September 11. As Fisichella explained, the pact aims to support reintegration efforts, providing employment opportunities for certain convicts through social initiatives.

While Pope Francis has previously opened a “door of mercy” at a Roman prison in 2015 during the Jubilee Year of Mercy, the Dec. 26 opening at Rebibbia will mark the first time a pope has opened an official Holy Door in a prison. The other Holy Doors for the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope will be located at St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome.

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Quote of the week

What are the attributes of our Blessed Mother Virgin Mary that Christians should emulate?

The attributes of the Blessed Virgin Mary that Christians are encouraged to emulate include a range of virtues that reflect her exemplary holiness and deep faith.

Faith and Trust: Mary is recognized for her profound faith and docile acceptance of God’s Word. Her response to the angel Gabriel exemplifies a complete trust in God’s plan, which serves as a model for Christians to surrender to God’s will in their own lives.

Obedience and Humility: Her generous obedience to God’s call and her genuine humility are highlighted as virtues that Christians should strive to embody. Mary’s willingness to accept her role as the Mother of God demonstrates a humble acceptance of divine purpose.

Charity and Compassion: Mary’s solicitous charity, particularly in her visit to Elizabeth and her care for Jesus, reflects a deep love for others. This attribute encourages Christians to practice love and service towards their neighbors.

Wisdom and Reflection: Mary’s profound wisdom, as seen in her contemplative nature and her ability to ponder the events of her life, invites Christians to seek understanding and insight in their own spiritual journeys.

Fortitude in Suffering: Her strength during times of suffering, particularly at the crucifixion of her Son, serves as an example of enduring faith amidst trials. Christians are called to find strength in their own challenges by looking to Mary’s example.

Maternal Love: Mary’s maternal love is a model for all who are called to nurture and support others. This aspect of her character encourages Christians to foster a spirit of care and compassion in their communities.

Devotion and Prayer: The importance of prayer and devotion to Mary is emphasized, as she is seen as a powerful intercessor. Christians are encouraged to turn to her in prayer, seeking her guidance and support in their spiritual lives.

By reflecting on these attributes, Christians can strive to incorporate them into their own lives, thereby growing in holiness and virtue as they follow the example set by Mary, the Mother of God.

Magisterium of the Catholic Church

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