Pope Francis to Open Holy Doors during Christmas Liturgies

Vatican city, November 26, 2024: Pope Francis will inaugurate the Jubilee of Hope by opening the Holy Doors of St. Peter’s Basilica and Rome’s Rebibbia prison during the Christmas season, as announced by the Vatican on November 25. The Holy Father’s liturgical schedule, spanning mid-December to mid-January, includes significant celebrations at the Vatican and beyond, beginning with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve during a solemn Mass.

On Christmas Day, Pope Francis will deliver the Urbi et Orbi address and blessing to “The City and the World.” The following day, on the Feast of St. Stephen, he will preside at Mass in Rebibbia prison, opening the only Holy Door outside a papal basilica, symbolizing outreach to the marginalized.

The Pope’s schedule for the New Year includes First Vespers and the Te Deum on December 31 in St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by Mass on January 1 to mark the 58th World Day of Peace. The liturgical celebrations will continue with a Mass on January 6 for the Solemnity of the Epiphany.

Pope Francis will conclude the Christmas Season on January 12 with a Mass in the Sistine Chapel for the Baptism of the Lord, where he will baptize children of Vatican employees. 

Courtesy: Vatican News