This is the 2025th anniversary of the birth of Our Lord. Pope Francis declared that this anniversary intends to “fan the flame of hope” as we “look to the future with a trusting heart and a far-sighted vision.” A holy year begins with opening the door at the Vatican, an event that occurred on Christmas Eve. You don’t have to fly to Rome to walk through the special jubilee door. Dioceses designate cathedrals and shrines where jubilee blessings and indulgences can be obtained. But perhaps a kind of jubilee door can be your own front door—or another door in your house. Let me explain.
Throughout this jubilee year the Catholic Church has designated certain days to prayerfully remember groups of people, such as the Armed Forces on February 8-9, Artists on February 15-16, and Teenagers on April 25-26 with many other groups in between. You can find these groups on the internet, but here’s another thought. What about taking one of those 2025 calendars you’ve received and color-code it with groups and individuals for whom you’d like to pray. Perhaps your favorite color could represent friends and family. Then select other colors to pray for healthcare personnel, law enforcement, teachers, your employer/employees, neighbors, and others. The calendar could become part of your prayer space. Looking at it will help you remember to pray for those persons.