Elements of a Holy Year

Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage is an image of discipleship. We often speak of our earthly life as a pilgrimage. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6), so Christians are always called to be with Jesus “on the way,” journeying toward the Kingdom. More literally, a pilgrimage is an actual journey to visit holy places—not as a tourist, but as one seeking to grow in faith and become a better Christian.

There are many instances of pilgrimage in Sacred Scripture: the journeys of Abraham and Moses, the pilgrimages to the Temple of Jerusalem, the shepherds’ going in haste to the newborn Jesus, the journey of the Magi to worship the child Jesus, and the journey of the women to the Lord’s empty tomb on Easter. In the first centuries of the Church, Christians began to journey to places made sacred by Christ’s life. A true pilgrimage should integrate education, spirituality, and community (although one can be a solitary pilgrim) to keep it from becoming a sightseeing venture.

Holy Door

The Holy Door at the Basilicas in Rome is a crucial symbol of the Jubilee Year.  Jesus said: “I am the door.  If anyone enters by me, he will be saved.” (Jn 10:9) Crossing the threshold of the Holy Door into the church is symbolic of passing from this world into the presence of God, passing from sin to grace, and from separation to union with God. Since many of us are unable to travel to Rome, Bishop O’Connell has designated a church in each county as a Pilgrimage destination. In order to experience and obtain the plenary Indulgence, the faithful are called to make a pilgrimage to one of these churches.  

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