The 2025 Jubilee Year And The Significance Of The Holy Door At The Vatican – OpEd

On 23rd March 2025, we arrived at Rome Fiumicino Airport from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen on Pegasus flight PC 1223. Passport control was quick. After collecting our luggage, we took the Leonardo Express train to Termini Central Station. The ticket cost €14 per person, and the journey took about 20 minutes. At Termini train station, we took the metro to Ottaviano station and walked to our hotel. We unlocked the entrance door via an internet connection, crossed the courtyard, and took the elevator up. Inside, we found a letter with our room key, a welcome note, and door codes. The next day, we visited the Vatican and passed through the Porta Sancta (Holy Door). The city is packed with Catholic pilgrims from all over the world. Due to the 25th Jubilee Year, Rome is exceptionally crowded and lively. We had previously visited the Vatican and walked through the Holy Door during the 2000 Jubilee Year. Hoping to repeat this experience 25 years later, we planned our trip for 23–28 March. The Meaning of the Jubilee Year and Porta Sancta In the Christian world, Jubilee Years are considered times of spiritual renewal and forgiveness. These sacred years, proclaimed by the Catholic Church, gain significance through pilgrimage and the remission of sins. The Porta Sancta, or Holy Door, is one of the most important symbols of this spiritual journey. Located in St. Peter’s Basilica, the Holy Door is only opened during Jubilee Years. This tradition was initiated by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300. Originally celebrated once every 100 years, Jubilee Years are now held every 25 years. On Christmas Day, the Pope ceremonially opens the door with a golden hammer, inviting believers to God’s mercy. The opening of the Holy Door symbolizes a return to God and forgiveness. Pilgrims pass through it to seek purification from past sins and spiritual renewal. The theme of the 2025 Jubilee Year, “Fraternity and Hope,” calls on all Christians to unite in solidarity. As a tangible expression of this message, Porta Sancta will serve as a gateway of peace and hope for millions of pilgrims. With modern technology, the 2025 ceremonies will reach billions worldwide. Passing through the Holy Door is not just a physical act but a profound spiritual experience. For believers, it signifies absolution, a fresh start, and a reaffirmation of their faith. Jubilee Years also serve as calls for peace and reconciliation, providing opportunities to end wars, combat poverty, and foster unity among communities. As a symbol of these ideals, Porta Sancta stands as a bridge bringing believers and all of humanity together. Rome, 28 March 2025 written by Haluk Direskeneli