Jubilee: How it has evolved over the centuries

The Jubilee is an extraordinary event in the Catholic tradition that has ancient roots, dating back to the 13th century, and has evolved significantly over the centuries to become a global celebration. This rite, rich in spirituality and history, is a testimony to the unity of the Catholic Church and its continuous adaptation to the times.

The First Jubilee of 1300: The Beginning of a Tradition

The first Jubilee was proclaimed by Pope Boniface VIII in 1300. This Jubilee, born in a period of great political and social difficulty, offered the faithful the opportunity to obtain a plenary indulgence, or the total remission of sins. According to tradition, the Jubilee was to be repeated every hundred years, but the enormous influx of pilgrims and the popularity of the event pushed subsequent popes to reduce the interval to 50, then 33 and finally 25 years. This decision consolidated the Jubilee as a regular and expected event in the life of the Church.

Evolution in the Renaissance: A Jubilee of Power and Art

During the Renaissance, the Jubilee took on a new dimension. In addition to the spiritual aspect, it became an opportunity for the Church to display its power and influence. The Jubilee of 1500, for example, called by Pope Alexander VI, saw a massive influx of pilgrims and was accompanied by major urban renewal projects in Rome. Streets and basilicas were restored, and new buildings were constructed to accommodate pilgrims. This period also marked the beginning of the promotion of indulgences, which led to controversy and, eventually, the Protestant Reformation.

The Jubilee in the Modern Era: A Message of Peace and Unity

In the 20th century, Jubilees began to reflect more the needs and concerns of the modern world. The Jubilee of 1950, under Pope Pius XII, took place in a context of post-war reconstruction and was a call for peace and reconciliation. The Jubilee of 2000, proclaimed by Pope John Paul II, was a historic event that marked the beginning of the new millennium. With worldwide participation, this Jubilee emphasized reconciliation between religions and interreligious dialogue, demonstrating the Church's desire to address global challenges in a spirit of unity and understanding.

The Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy: A New Approach

In 2015, Pope Francis proclaimed an extraordinary Jubilee, dedicated to Mercy. This Jubilee marked a significant turning point, as it was not only an event for the faithful who could travel to Rome, but was extended to all the dioceses of the world. Pope Francis opened the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, and invited the dioceses to do the same, creating a decentralized and accessible event. This Jubilee reflected Pope Francis’ vision of a Church close to the poor, inclusive and merciful.

The Jubilee Today: Towards 2025

The next ordinary Jubilee will be held in 2025 and is expected to follow the path set by Pope Francis, focusing on timely issues such as the environment, peace, and solidarity. The Jubilee tradition continues to evolve, keeping alive its spiritual essence, but adapting to the needs of an ever-changing world.

From the first Jubilee in 1300 to today, this celebration has spanned the centuries, transforming from a local event to a global phenomenon, while maintaining its core of faith and hope. The Jubilee is a symbol of the Church's ability to renew itself, responding to the spiritual needs of the faithful and facing the challenges of the present with an eye to the future.