Opening of the Jubilee Year 2025

Jan 10, 2025

Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur
The Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur inaugurated the Jubilee Year of Hope with an Opening Mass at the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist. The celebration, attended by members of the clergy, seminarians, and faithful from across the archdiocese, marked the beginning of a year-long spiritual journey themed Hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:5).

The Mass was presided over by Archbishop Julian Leow and concelebrated by Apostolic Nuncio to Malaysia, Archbishop Wojciech Za?uski; Vicars General Msgr Patrick Boudville and Msgr Stanislaus Soosaimariam; and the Cathedral’s parish priest, Fr Gerard Theraviam.


(Archbishop Julian Leow leading the prayers during the Mass.)


The ceremony commenced with the Introductory Rites and the reading of excerpts from the Bull of Indiction of the Jubilee Year at the entrance of the cathedral. This was followed by a solemn procession into the cathedral for the Eucharistic celebration.

In his homily, Archbishop Julian elaborated on the significance of the Jubilee Year theme. “The Jubilee Year is a time to be anchored in hope and in Christ,” he said. “Let us not forget the heart of our faith, which is the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ did not remain in the tomb when He died. Instead, He overcame death and sin, and we, who believe in Him, will have everlasting life. This is our hope.”

Referring to the Jubilee Year logo, the prelate explained that the four figures touching each other’s shoulders, leading toward the cross with an anchor at its base, symbolise the call to live in communion with one another. He emphasised the importance of staying anchored in Christ, despite the numerous challenges we face in today’s world.

Archbishop Julian also urged the congregation to deepen their understanding of the Jubilee Year by reading Pope Francis’ Bull of Indiction, released in May 2024. He emphasised the spiritual importance of pilgrimages during this period, likening them to life’s journey.

“A pilgrimage is not merely about walking through church doors,” he said. “We must prepare ourselves for the journey, participate in the Eucharist, and seek reconciliation through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. After the pilgrimage, let us become signs of hope for those around us, especially migrants, the sick and elderly, prisoners, and the differently abled.”

The Jubilee Year of Hope will feature various activities and pilgrimages aimed at fostering spiritual renewal and communal unity. It will conclude on January 6, 2026, the Feast of the Epiphany. --Julie Lim

Diocese of Penang
Cardinal Sebastian Francis, the bishop of Penang, celebrated the Opening Mass for the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. The celebration commenced with the rite of opening, featuring the resonant trumpeting of the shofar and a vibrant procession of banners representing all parishes within the Penang Diocese.

Reflecting the spirit of the Jubilee Year, Cardinal Sebastian urged all to embark on this pilgrimage with hearts prepared for renewal and reconciliation, journeying together as one Body of Christ in a shared faith-filled pilgrimage. “Be prepared for the Holy Spirit to surprise us on this journey!” he exhorted.


(Cardinal Sebastian Francis with his clergy launching the Year of Hope.)


The Mass was concelebrated by the clergy of the diocese, including Bishop Emeritus Antony Selvanayagam, Msgr Henry Rajoo, Msgr Jude Miranda, Msgr Stephen Liew, Fr Joachim Robert, Fr Martin Arlando (the overall Coordinator of the Jubilee Year in the Penang Diocese), and Deacon Andrew Loh.

In his homily, Cardinal Sebastian shared an inspiring message of hope, recounting the need to keep hope alive in all circumstances. “As Pilgrims of Hope, we must embrace the thrill of hope and always nurture its flame,” he said. He called upon the faithful to be guided by the Archangel Gabriel, the Holy Spirit, and the soon-to-be saint Blessed Carlo Acutis. He emphasised that hope is a divine gift — one that never gives up, never despairs, and is always alive.

Cardinal Sebastian drew parallels between the Feast of the Holy Family and the pilgrimage of hope, highlighting how the Holy Family overcame earthly challenges. He stressed the importance of conversion as the first step in this pilgrimage, referencing the Synod of Bishops held in Rome in October 2024.

“Conversion means to repent and believe in the Gospel,” he explained, urging the faithful to follow the example of John the Baptist by sharing resources with those in need and embodying the spirit of charity.

The Cardinal also invoked the parable of the Prodigal Son, encouraging all to “return home to the Father” and rediscover the connection between faith, hope, and charity. “Hope allows us to dream dreams and see visions of God’s plan for creation, humanity, and the Church. It fills us with faith and inspires us to embrace the present as Missionary Disciples of Joy, Mercy, and Hope,” he said.

He further called for a holistic pilgrimage involving body, soul, and spirit. “Start the journey from the head, receiving messages through the ears and visuals through the eyes, then move to the heart, pondering like Mary. From the heart, continue the pilgrimage to your hands and feet, putting faith into action,” he encouraged.

Addressing the youth, the cardinal extended an invitation from Pope Francis, Blessed Carlo Acutis, and himself for young people to become digital missionaries. He encouraged them to use social media courageously to share stories of hope while participating in physical pilgrimages alongside their peers. “Use your smartphones as tools for spreading the Good News!” he urged.

“We send you, young and old, healthy and sick, saints, and sinners alike, apostles and disciples, including children to begin this pilgrimage today, December 29, 2024, until December 28, 2025 with the Trinitarian blessings of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,” said Cardinal Sebastian.

The highlight of the event came at the conclusion of the Mass when Cardinal Sebastian unfurled the Jubilee Banner bearing the inscription Hope Does Not Disappoint (Romans 5:5)” and formally declared the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 open. The moment was marked by the ceremonial blowing of the shofar, symbolising a call to renewal and unity. --Diocese of Penang Soccom

Diocese of Malacca Johore

Bishop Bernard Paul, together with members of the clergy, celebrated the opening of the Jubilee Year in the diocese at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The occasion began with the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which was originally scheduled to start at 9.00am. However, in response to the early arrival of some parishioners, the adoration was moved up to 8.30am.

Over 800 parishioners, predominantly from the Cathedral and South Johor parishes, attended the event. The solemn opening of the Jubilee Year featured a significant pilgrimage of the diocesan Church, and a processional entrance behind the cross into the cathedral.

The congregation gathered in the carpark area outside the church building where the procession began with three crosses tied together leading the way. The three crosses represent the three pilgrim centres in the diocese. Journeying from the carpark to church culminated with the blessing of the people with the three crosses.


(The servers with one of the three crosses for the three pilgrim centres.)

Bishop Bernard in his homily proclaimed, “We are called to be a pilgrim person, pilgrim families, pilgrim parishes and pilgrim priests of hope.” He invited those present to go back to who we are… go back to being pilgrims. Pilgrimage is a way to meet God. It shows us to how to go on in the midst of pain and sufferings.

Referring to the nativity, he affirms that God is present in the pain, in the dirt, in the stable. Jesus was also a pilgrim – coming from heaven to earth and becoming the way and leading others to God.

Turning to the clergy, Bishop Bernard urged them to be pilgrim priests, ordained for the pilgrim people to lead them to God every day. “God is counting on us to accompany, to mentor and build a People of Hope. We are here to point out the Lord in our midst,” he continued.

Representatives from the three pilgrim centres were presented with the Jubilee candle and a cross each. The cross will be placed near the altar in the sanctuary where it remains for the entire Jubilee Year for the veneration of the faithful.

At the end of Mass, the faithful were given a pilgrim’s pack which consisted of a Pilgrim Passport for the pilgrim centres in the diocese, a car decal of the Jubilee logo and a candle. --Angila Yong

Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu
The Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu officially launched its Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 with a grand celebration at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. The event drew an impressive turnout of approximately 1,200 Catholics from parishes across the archdiocese.

The celebration began with a Bible Enthronement in the Sacred Heart Hall, where Archbishop John Wong, accompanied by priests of the archdiocese, participated in the proclamation of the Jubilee Bull. The document was read aloud by Fr Rhobby Mojolou, setting the tone for the momentous occasion.


(Archbishop John Wong blessing the congregation with holy water.)

Following the enthronement, a solemn procession made its way from the hall to the cathedral. Leading the procession were 36 clergy members, both junior and senior, symbolising the unity and continuity of the Church’s mission. Upon reaching the cathedral, the congregation paused at the closed doors of the church to witness the ceremonial opening of the Jubilee ‘Door of Hope’ by Archbishop John. This act symbolised the invitation to enter into a year of renewal, faith, and hope.

The Eucharistic celebration commenced at 5.00pm, marking the spiritual highlight of the day. The liturgy brought together Catholics from diverse backgrounds, united in prayer and gratitude for the beginning of this significant year.

Ahead of the launch, Archbishop John shared a special video message with the faithful of the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu. In his address, he reflected on the theme of the Jubilee Year, Pilgrims of Hope, stating: “This Jubilee Year, with the theme Pilgrims of Hope, calls us to walk together in faith, hope, and charity, reflecting our Archdiocesan vision to be a Christ-centred community, serving one another with love and compassion.

Guided by our mission to evangelise, to be formed in the Word of God, and to build a spirit-filled community, this Jubilee is more than a celebration — it is a journey of renewal and transformation.

“Through the programmes and initiatives planned for this special year, we are invited to actively participate, deepening our faith and strengthening our unity. Let us seize this opportunity to grow as disciples of Christ, journeying together in hope and living out our call to bring God’s love and mercy to all.” --Peter Zeter

Diocese of Keningau
The Diocese of Keningau launched the Jubilee Year 2025 at the Holy Family Pilgrimage Centre, Nulu Sosopon (PZKKNS), with the opening of the Door of the Good Shepherd.

Bishop Cornelius Piong announced that the “Door of the Good Shepherd” at PZKKNS is open to all pilgrims. “The Good Shepherd’s Door,” said Bishop Cornelius, “symbolises Jesus’ compassion, love, and sacrifice. Without the Good Shepherd, the Church risks straying. He will guide us to the right path and protect us from evil.”


(The entrance procession for the Eucharistic Celebration.)


In his address, the prelate emphasised that the Jubilee Year is a time for spiritual renewal and growth, providing the faithful with an opportunity to overcome life’s challenges with a deeper sense of hope and faith. He highlighted that this year-long celebration offers a unique chance for the people of Keningau to deepen their relationship with God through reconciliation and His mercy.

“The Diocese of Keningau invites all local pilgrims and those from other dioceses to embrace this journey of spiritual renewal,” Bishop Cornelius said. “Come closer to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and be strengthened in faith, hope, and love” (John 10:7-10).

He concluded his homily by urging everyone to “seize this moment to walk as pilgrims of hope, finding peace and joy through the sacred pilgrimage sites of the Jubilee Year 2025.” --Markus Juanis

Diocese of Miri
The launch of the Jubilee Year was held at the Cathedral of St Joseph during the 11.00am Mass.

As Bishop Richard Ng was away, in his stead, the vicar general Msgr Francis Kuleh presided.


(Msgr Francis Kuleh with the jubilee banner)

Msgr Francis spoke on the papal document Hope Does Not Disappoint and also about the Feast of the Holy Family while connecting it with his own anniversary.

After the homily, he unfurled the banner which was earlier sent to all the 14 parishes in the diocese.

Diocese of Sandakan
Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom officially inaugurated the Jubilee Year at St Mary’s Cathedral.

Following the Rites of the Jubilee Year 2025, the celebration began at the parish hall, leading to a solemn pilgrimage procession to the Cathedral. The prelate led the procession, accompanied by clergy from the various parishes of the Diocese of Sandakan, seminarians, altar servers, and lectors. The choir chanted, “Jesus Christ, yesterday, today, and always. To Him honour and glory forever.”


(Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom incensing the cross.)

After venerating the cross as the Cross of Christ, our only Hope, Bishop Julius opened the main door, guiding the congregation into the Cathedral for the celebration of the Mass.

Bishop Julius expressed his joy in the presence of priests, religious, seminarians, and representatives from all parishes within the Diocese of Sandakan.

The bishop instructed all parish priests throughout the Sandakan diocese to lead catechesis and encourage their parishioners to undertake pilgrimages to the designated pilgrim centres, aiming to renew their commitment, faith, and conviction that the Lord is our Hope, no matter the challenges they face.

He also urged families to follow the example of the Holy Family, fostering courage to sow seeds of hope within their households and beyond. Bishop Julius reminded the congregation of Pope Francis’ emphasis that forgiveness is essential for a happy family life, and without it, love and care are unattainable. With God, however, lives are transformed, joy abounds, and hope does not disappoint. Throughout the Jubilee Year, may we embrace the hope of the Gospel, love, and forgiveness. --Evelyn Jock

Archdiocese of Kuching
The Archdiocese of Kuching marked the inauguration of the Jubilee Year of Hope with a solemn ceremony at the Cathedral of St Joseph, blending prayer, ritual, and liturgy in a moving celebration of faith.

Archbishop Simon Poh led the event, beginning with praise and prayer, followed by the rites of the Jubilee Year at the cathedral’s entrance. The celebration transitioned to the English Mass after the proclamation of the Gospel from St John and an extract from the Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee Year.


Archbishop Simon Poh places the Jubilee Cross at the entrance of the Holy Door, Cathedral of St Joseph. (Today’s Catholic/Danison Manium)

A significant moment came when Archbishop Simon carried the Jubilee Cross to the Holy Door and affixed it at its entrance, symbolically launching the Jubilee Year 2025 for the Archdiocese of Kuching. The procession entered the cathedral to the hymn ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,’ setting a joyful tone for the Sunday Holy Mass.

Archbishop Simon presided over the Eucharistic celebration, which was concelebrated by Fr Galvin Ngumbang and Fr Davie Entalai. The event reflected unity with Pope Francis and the global Church. “Together, we join the Holy Father to enter this Jubilee Year as pilgrims of hope,” Archbishop Simon remarked. He described the Jubilee as “a time of blessing, a time of grace, a time of reconciliation and healing,” echoing the Scripture readings of the day.

Highlighting a local milestone, the prelate said that the doors to the new St Peter’s Church in Padungan were opened on Christmas Eve, symbolising an invitation to “enter the door to encounter our loving God.” He drew upon Pope Francis’ description of the Holy Door as “Jesus, the door of salvation that is always open to all… Jesus is the door of peace.” Furthermore, Pope Francis calls on us to embrace our journey as “pilgrims of hope.”

The ceremony also featured the Jubilee Prayer, culminating in a final blessing from Archbishop Simon, who reminded the faithful that the Jubilee 2025 had officially begun, inviting all to embrace their role as “pilgrims of hope.” --Ivy Chai

Diocese of Sibu
On January 1, 2025, the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, Bishop Joseph Hii officially launched the Jubilee Year for the diocese at the Sacred Heart Cathedral.

In his opening remarks, Bishop Joseph echoed Pope Francis’ message for the World Day of Peace: “Forgive us our trespasses: grant us your peace.” He reminded the congregation that we are “forgiven debtors,” called to be pilgrims of hope, rediscovering the path of hope and peace in Jesus Christ.

During his homily, the bishop emphasised that all grace is given through Jesus Christ. The Jubilee Year serves as a reminder for pilgrims to rediscover the treasures that God has bestowed upon humanity through His Church. “Do not be obstacles to others in receiving this grace,” he challenged. “Be a channel so that others may receive the mercy of God through you.”


(Parish representatives receiving the banners from Bishop Joseph Hii.)

Concelebrating with the bishop at the Mass were the clergy from the diocese. Additionally, as the President of the Regional Episcopal Commissions for Creation Justice, Bishop Joseph also launched the ninth year of a decade dedicated to Creation Justice, under the theme Year of Sister Mother Earth and Holy Orders: Stewardship of All Creation (Culture of Care).

In his pastoral letter, Bishop Joseph stressed that we cannot remain indifferent to the negative impact of selfish lifestyles and wastefulness, especially towards the poor and marginalised. He cited Exodus 3:7 and 22:20-26, noting that “God shows Himself to be the one who hears the cry of the poor, sees the misery of His people, and cares for those who are least and for the oppressed.”

“Only by contributing to the restoration of God’s justice on earth and not closing our ears to the cry of the poor can we advance towards peace and the dawn of a new, better world.” He further emphasised that, “We cannot exist without the rest of Creation, for we are all interconnected and interdependent — from the very air we breathe, water, and all living beings, to the smallest star in the galaxy and the smallest microorganism in the soil.”

Representatives from various parishes of the Diocese of Sibu were present to receive promotional banners and books for the diocese-wide campaign to raise awareness about the Jubilee Year of Hope and the Year of Sister Mother Earth and Holy Orders: Stewardship of All Creation (Culture of Care).

Bishop Joseph extended his gratitude to all the priests in the presbyterium for their continued humble service to the people of God. He emphasised that “True greatness is found in humbly serving others,” as Scripture teaches, “To be great is to be servant of all” (Mk 10:43-44, Mt 20:26).

“We must learn to put the needs of others before our own, becoming loving neighbours to everyone, including all of Creation. Every word and gesture of mercy reflects God’s love for them.”

The event concluded with Fr Philip Hu leading Sacred Heart Cathedral’s leaders in a pledge to make Sacred Heart Cathedral an ecological parish. --James Lau