Pope Francis has inaugurated a new cycle of meetings in the framework of the Jubilee 2025, focused on inspiring hope and spiritual renewal. In his first Jubilee Audience, held on January 11 in the Paul VI Hall, the Pontiff invited the faithful to embrace a new beginning in their lives, encouraging them to serve, love, and rediscover the greatness of smallness.
A key word: start over
“Start over” resonated repeatedly in the Holy Father’s catechesis. This concept, he explained, embodies the profound meaning of the Jubilee: an opportunity to renew adherence to Christ and to set out again on the path of hope. In the words of the Pope, “We become pilgrims to ask for a gift, to set out again on the path of life.”
These Saturday audiences, which will be held every 15 days, complement the traditional Wednesday General Audiences and represent a privileged space for pilgrims to approach the spirituality of the Jubilee.
Saint John the Baptist: the model of hope
With the feast of the Baptism of the Lord approaching, the Pope reflected on Saint John the Baptist, whom he described as a “great prophet of hope.” He highlighted the figure of the Baptist as an example of credibility and greatness that inspired the multitudes to seek a new beginning. He compared his invitation to cross the Jordan River with the act of passing through the Holy Door, both symbolic gestures of spiritual renewal.
“Brothers and sisters, start over,” exclaimed the Pope, inviting those present to embrace hope with a sincere desire for change. “Think about this: Do I really want to start over?” he asked, underlining the importance of opening oneself to the Kingdom of God to find new greatness.
Commitment to the little ones
The Holy Father also stressed the need to return to the roots of Christian love: to recognize our smallness, to serve others and to listen to the voice of the most vulnerable. “Hope for our common home – this Earth so wounded – and for all humanity is found in the originality of God, which shines in Jesus,” said Francis.
This call to start over, according to the Pope, is not only a personal act, but a community commitment to build a more fraternal and just world, following the example of Christ.
Upcoming jubilee meetings
The Prefecture of the Papal Household has arranged a calendar for these audiences, which will extend throughout the year. The meetings will take place in the Paul VI Hall or in St. Peter’s Square, depending on attendance, and admission will be free. The scheduled dates include February 1 and 15, March 1 and 15, and several more until December.
This Jubilee offers a unique opportunity for the faithful of the entire world to unite around hope and renewal, responding to Pope Francis’ call: “Let us begin again together, serving and loving, and let us build a future full of hope.”
