Pope Francis visited one of Italy’s largest prison complexes on Thursday, and opened a special “sacred door” for the 2025 Catholic holy year, with the Vatican saying it was the first such action by a Catholic pontiff.
Speaking to hundreds of prisoners, guards and staff at the Rebibbia prison on the outskirts of Rome, Francis said he wanted to open the door, part of the prison chapel, and one of only five that will remain open during the Holy Year, to show For “hope does not disappoint.”
“In bad moments, we can all think that everything is over,” the Pope said. “Don’t lose hope. That’s the message I wanted to give you. Don’t lose hope.”
Francis kicked off the Catholic holy year, also known as Jubilee, on Tuesday. Catholic anniversaries are considered a time of peace, forgiveness and forgiveness. This anniversary dedicated to the theme of hope will continue till January 6, 2026.
Holy Years typically occur every 25 years, and usually include the opening of four special “Holy Doors” in Rome, symbolizing the gates of salvation for Catholics. The doors to the papal basilica in Rome are open only during jubilee years.
The Vatican said the opening of the “Holy Door” in Rome’s Rebibia prison marked the first time such a door had been opened in a prison by a Pope since the Jubilee Year tradition was initiated by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300.
Francis has paid special attention to jailed people during his 11-year papal tenure. He frequently visits the prisons of Rome and on his foreign trips.
