Obtain a Jubilee Indulgence at These Four Major Basilicas

The Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, which commenced on Christmas Eve, is a period of deep spiritual renewal for Catholics across the globe. During a jubilee, Catholics receive an opportunity to obtain a special plenary indulgence. A plenary indulgence is a grace offered by the Catholic Church that removes all temporal punishment for forgiven sins, sparing the soul from further reparation.

During the Jubilee year, pilgrims can gain this indulgence by passing through the holy doors of any one of the four major basilicas in Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica, Basilica of St. John Lateran, Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Basilica of St. Mary Major.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world. Built over the tomb of the Apostle Peter, it showcases the architectural genius of figures like Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante. The Holy Door of the Basilica was opened by Pope Alexander VI during the Jubilee of 1500. Pilgrims from around the world flock here, especially during the Holy Year, to pass through the Holy Door and seek spiritual renewal.

Basilica of St. John in Lateran

The Basilica of St. John in Lateran holds the distinction of being the oldest basilica in the Western world. Built in the early 4th century by Emperor Constantine, it remained the residence of the Pope until the papacy's temporary move to Avignon during the 14th century.

Following the papacy's return to Rome, St. Peter’s Basilica rose to greater prominence, and became the official residence of the Pope. Despite this shift, St. John in Lateran retained its ritual importance. During the 1425 Jubilee, Pope Martin V inaugurated the Holy Door of the Basilica, solidifying its lasting role in Jubilee celebrations.

Basilica of St. Mary Major

The Basilica of St. Mary Major is the largest Marian church in Rome. Built during the 5th century, the basilica is noted for its exquisite mosaics, which adorn its triumphal arch and nave. The Holy Door of the Basilica was opened by Pope Alexander VI during the Jubilee of 1500, affirming its importance as a sacred pilgrimage site during Holy Years.

Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

Located outside the Aurelian Walls of Rome, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls stands on the site of the tomb of Paul, the Apostle. Its original structure, built in 313 AD, was replaced by a larger one in 390 AD. After it was destroyed in a fire in 1823, it was rebuilt and opened in 1859. The current structure houses ancient treasures, including the sarcophagus believed to contain the bones of St Paul. The Holy Door of the Basilica, first opened in the Jubilee of 1500, will once again welcome pilgrims in 2025.

In the Jubilee Year 2025, these four major basilicas will serve as beacons of faith, welcoming pilgrims to experience the rich history, sacred relics, and profound spiritual significance that each church embodies.

By Catholic Connect Reporter