During this Jubilee Year, many have journeyed together to be “Pilgrims of Hope”. Pope Leo XIV called it a time for “conversion and renewal, to embark on a new path, animated by the hope we can build a world in which everyone can lead an authentically human life in truth, justice and peace.”
The official Jubilee icon, commissioned by CAFOD with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, is touring churches and cathedrals. The Icon, present at Hallam’s Jubilee Mass for Volunteers on Saturday 15th November, shows the Ethiopian context in which artist, Mulugeta Araya, painted it. It depicts Luke 4:16-21, where Jesus preaches that he is the fulfilment of the year of the Lord’s favour, bringing sight to those who are blind, liberty to those who are oppressed and good news to those who are poor.
This Holy Year, we are called to be “tangible signs of hope for those of our brothers and sisters who experience hardships of any kind,” and parish communities have shown their generosity in several ways. Participating in Jubilee pilgrimages, giving to Family Fast Day appeals, and through other regular donations. Many have signed a worldwide church petition about the climate crisis and related debt that’s affecting many of the world’s poorest countries. All are living witnesses to Jesus’ commandment “love your neighbour.” These acts of faith and solidarity are true signs of hope for our global family.
A Jubilee year is about legacy, our children and young people have learned the traditional meaning of Jubilee, partaking in reflective activities. Over 60% of Catholic schools are signing a Jubilee pledge, committing their school community to living out Catholic Social Teaching in the long-term. What an amazing legacy of this Jubilee Year! Angela Powell
