Pope Francis opens Holy Year: A little girl as ambassador

Pope Francis opens Holy Year: A little girl as ambassador

Pentecost 2025 will be the climax of Christianity loyal to Rome, because it will open the Holy Year 2025! On December 24, 2024, Pope Francis will open the “Holy Door” in St. Peter's Basilica with a significant act, and in this special moment the Austrian girl Ludovica-Lavinia Piccioni will also play a central role. The eight-year-old girl from Wels is chosen as one of the few children to take part in the ceremony, where she crosses the hallowed portal in typical Upper Austrian costume. This gate normally remains locked and is only opened at special times to allow pilgrims access to a “plenary indulgence,” according to a report by kathpress.at mentioned.

Pilgrims of Hope – the motto of the jubilee year

The concept of the Holy Year has a long tradition, dating back to 1300, when Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first Jubilee. Under the motto “Pilgrims of Hope”, Rome expects millions of visitors from all over the world until January 6, 2026. During this time, churches host a variety of events to strengthen faith and hope, and passing through the Holy Door is a central element of this pilgrimage experience. This year is particularly exciting as the Holy Door is only open on special occasions, such as tourist-in-rome.com describes.

The celebrations will include many church events where believers will have the opportunity to reflect and pray. In addition to the opening of the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica, there will be specific dates for the opening of other holy doors in other papal basilicas. After all, the Holy Year is not only an event for believers, but also a cultural spectacle that connects many with the hope of grace and spiritual renewal.