Archdiocese of Davao Officially Opens Jubilee Year 2025

Davao City, December 29, 2024—The Archdiocese of Davao joyfully opened the Jubilee Year 2025 with a solemn celebration beginning at 6:30 AM at the Centennial Monument of Peace and Unity, situated in front of the San Pedro Cathedral. This marked the beginning of a yearlong journey as “Pilgrims of Hope,” in line with the global Church’s call for renewal, forgiveness, and unity.

The celebration began with a procession symbolizing the journey of the faithful. Although the original plan was to commence the procession from the nearest parish, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., noted in his homily that the distance between the Cathedral and surrounding parishes posed a challenge. “Ang Holy Year mga igsuon… usa ka tuig, special nga panahón diin atong paningkamutan ang pagpasaylo, pakig-uli ngadto sa Ginoo, ngadto sa isig-kaingon, ug ngadto sa kinaiyahan,” (The Holy Year, my dear brothers and sisters… is a special year when we strive for forgiveness, reconciliation with God, with one another, and with nature), Archbishop Valles emphasized in his message of hope and renewal.

As part of the liturgical celebration, the Archbishop lifted the cross at the entrance of the Cathedral, inviting the faithful to venerate it with deep reverence. Inside the Cathedral, the Eucharistic Celebration was the focal point of the gathering, reflecting the heart of Christian life and the Church’s mission. The rites also included a sprinkling with holy water, a powerful reminder of baptism as the gateway to sacramental life and a call to renewal.

The homily centered on the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the journey towards a deeper relationship with Christ and one another. Archbishop Valles urged the faithful to embrace the graces offered in this Jubilee Year, fostering unity and hope amidst the challenges of life. He highlighted the significance of this special time for spiritual growth, healing, and communal renewal.

The Jubilee Year 2025 is a time of grace for the faithful, inviting everyone to deepen their faith and encounter God’s infinite mercy. The Archdiocese of Davao welcomes all to join in this sacred journey of hope and renewal.