Pope Francis made history this week by opening a holy door at Rebibbia Prison on the outskirts of Rome, marking the first time a sacred portal has been inaugurated inside a correctional facility.

The move, which comes as part of the Catholic Church’s “jubilee of hope,” reflects the pontiff’s longstanding commitment to the marginalized, especially those behind bars.

The Vatican has described the ceremony as a landmark event in the lead-up to the 2025 Jubilee.

Traditionally, holy doors—ordinarily sealed or bricked up—are opened at major basilicas in Rome, such as St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Santa Maria Maggiore, offering pilgrims a plenary indulgence, or spiritual reprieve from their sins.

By extending this practice to a prison, Francis aimed to highlight themes of redemption, forgiveness, and hope that lie at the core of Jubilee celebrations.

### A Deeper Call for Reform

In his address to hundreds of inmates, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of hope, likening it to an anchor that keeps people safe, especially in moments of doubt and despair.

In his papal bull for the Jubilee, titled “Spes non confundit” (Latin for “hope does not disappoint”), he also renewed calls for practical reforms, such as amnesty or pardon for prisoners and pathways toward reintegration.

Notably, the pontiff once again advocated for the abolition of the death penalty—a stance he has reinforced multiple times throughout his papacy.

Speaking at the prison chapel, the pope described incarceration as a “cathedral of pain and hope” and urged inmates not to lose faith in better days ahead.

By physically opening the door—one of only five to be opened during the Jubilee year—Francis underscored his message that mercy and reconciliation should be at the heart of Catholic life.

### The Nature and Tradition of Jubilees

The Jubilee, a year dedicated to penance, reflection, and renewal, is a tradition rooted in the Catholic Church’s history.

It ordinarily takes place every 25 years, although “extraordinary jubilees” can be declared outside that cycle, as happened in 2016.

The Holy See expects millions of pilgrims to visit Rome over the coming year.

Celebrations will range from formal Masses to cultural events, exhibitions, and conferences—culminating in a global emphasis on the Church’s mission to spread compassion and promote social justice.

In addition to inviting Roman Catholics around the world to mark this period of reflection, Pope Francis consistently strives to engage with non-Catholics and people on the peripheries of society.

By choosing Rebibbia Prison to open one of the holy doors, he exemplified his broader vision of a more inclusive and accessible Church.

### Broadening the Conversation on Justice

Critics and observers alike note that while the act of opening a holy door in a prison is largely symbolic, it places a spotlight on prison conditions and the need for meaningful criminal justice reforms.

Faith leaders and human rights advocates say the Church’s attention could help address overcrowded facilities, inadequate support for rehabilitation, and what many view as overly punitive sentencing in certain parts of the world.

On the other hand, some argue that real progress will depend on government-level policy changes and stronger collaboration between religious institutions, civic organizations, and lawmakers.

Still, Pope Francis’s highly visible intervention continues a tradition of papal outreach to inmates, recalling previous prison visits during which he famously washed the feet of detainees.

### Looking Ahead

With the holy door now officially open at Rebibbia Prison, the Jubilee is poised to draw millions of pilgrims and curious observers to Rome over the next year.

Catholic leaders hope this time of spiritual renewal and reflection will resonate well beyond the walls of the Vatican, fostering greater empathy and forward-thinking reforms.

As Pope Francis continues to champion the dignity of every human being—no matter their circumstances—his latest gesture at Rebibbia sets a strong precedent for using sacred traditions to spark wider conversations on justice, mercy, and hope.