WITH the solemn rite of opening the Porta Sancta (the "Holy Door") — much simplified from earlier, more elaborate but richly symbolic ceremonies — Pope Francis opened the Jubilee Year in Rome. It has for its theme "Pilgrims of Hope." It is categorized as an "ordinary" Jubilee Year — although there is nothing ordinary about a Jubilee Year. In fact, it is a very special year, one marked by pilgrimages and, Catholics believe, a particular outpouring of Divine favor! As an "ordinary Jubilee Year," the next one will be 25 years hence — I shall no longer be around for it.
The last ordinary Jubilee Year was at the turn of the Millennium, 2000. The 2015 Jubilee Year of Mercy was an extraordinary one, which means that we should not expect one such celebration at regular intervals.
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