Join the Jubilee in Orange County
In 2025, the Catholic Church celebrates the Jubilee Year of Hope — a rare and sacred tradition observed every 25 years. With the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” this Jubilee invites us to reflect on our journey of faith and embrace the hope that God offers to all.
The Jubilee begins globally on December 24, 2024, when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and will conclude on January 6, 2026. In our diocese, we will join this historic celebration with meaningful events and opportunities for renewal, starting December 29, 2024, and continuing through January 9, 2026.
What is a Jubilee Year?
A Jubilee is a special year of grace in the Catholic Church, celebrated every 25 years, and dedicated to prayer, renewal, and growing closer to God.
Pilgrimage is a key part of the Jubilee, inviting the faithful to journey to holy sites or participate in local pilgrimages as a sign of faith. During this time, the Church also offers indulgences, special graces for spiritual renewal and forgiveness.
Jubilee of Marriage Mass
Saturday, July 26 @ 11:30AM • Arboretum at Christ Cathedral
On the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, patron saints of married couples, the bishops of California have declared July 26 the Jubilee of Marriage as part of the statewide Radiate Love Initiative. Join us for a special Diocesan Mass with Fr. Angelos Sebastian celebrating the vocation of marriage and the gift it brings to the Church and the world. Married couples and families are especially invited to attend and to receive the plenary indulgence offered on this holy day.
(A plenary indulgence is granted to all the faithful who are truly repentant and detached from any sin and confess their sins sacramentally, receive Holy Communion, pray for the intentions of the Holy Father, and either go on a pilgrimage visit to the local cathedral, designated pilgrimage churches, perform corporal or spiritual works of mercy, or pray a group rosary.)
The first 100 people to RSVP will be entered into a giveaway! (RSVP not required to attend the Mass.)
CELEBRATE HOPE
This Jubilee is an invitation for everyone to rediscover God’s presence in their lives and renew their trust in His promises.
Pope Francis calls on Catholics everywhere to embrace pilgrimage as part of the Jubilee experience. Pilgrimages symbolize our spiritual journey toward God and invite us to step away from the ordinary to seek renewal. For those unable to travel to Rome or other pilgrimage sites, visit the Year of Hope Cross and take part in local pilgrimages and prayer services.
Pilgrimage sites in the Diocese of Orange are as follows:
– Christ Cathedral, 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove CA 92840
– Mission Basilica, 31520 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
– Our Lady of Guadalupe, 900 W La Habra Blvd, La Habra, CA 90631
FAQ’s
What is the Jubilee Year of Hope?
The Jubilee Year of Hope is a special celebration in the Catholic Church, held every 25 years. It’s a time to renew our faith, reflect on God’s mercy, and embrace hope for the future.
What is the Year of Hope Cross?
The Year of Hope Cross is a central part of our diocesan celebration. Located at Christ Cathedral, it serves as a local pilgrimage site where you can pray, reflect, and receive a plenary indulgence as part of the Jubilee.
How can I receive a plenary indulgence during the Jubilee Year of Hope?
To receive a plenary indulgence, you must:
- * Visit the Year of Hope Cross or another designated holy site.
- * Go to Confession.
- * Receive the Eucharist.
- * Pray for the intentions of the Pope.
- * Perform an act of mercy or charity.
Can I celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope without traveling to Rome?
Yes! While visiting the Holy Doors in Rome is a beautiful tradition, you can fully participate locally by visiting the Year of Hope Cross or taking part in diocesan events and pilgrimages.
- Pilgrimage sites in the Diocese of Orange are as follows:
- – Christ Cathedral, 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove CA 92840
- – Mission Basilica, 31520 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
- – Our Lady of Guadalupe, 900 W La Habra Blvd, La Habra, CA 90631
Why is pilgrimage important during the Jubilee Year of Hope?
Pilgrimage is a key symbol of the Jubilee, representing our spiritual journey toward God. Whether visiting Rome or local sacred sites, it’s an opportunity to step away from daily life and grow closer to God.
What is an indulgence, and why is it part of the Jubilee Year?
An indulgence is a special grace that removes the temporal effects of sin. The Church offers plenary indulgences during the Jubilee as a way to deepen our experience of God’s love and mercy.