Pilgrims of Hope: The Archdiocese of Cardiff Prepares for the 2025 Jubilee Year

The Archdiocese of Cardiff has officially launched its preparations for the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025, embracing Pope Francis’ chosen theme: Pilgrims of Hope. This significant occasion in the Catholic Church invites the faithful to embark on a spiritual journey, deepening their faith and trust in God’s promises.

In a message from Archbishop Mark O’Toole, he reflects on the importance of hope in the Christian faith, drawing inspiration from St Paul’s words:

“We rejoice in our hope of sharing the glory of God… and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 5:2,5)

The Jubilee Year, which occurs every 25 years, is a time of renewal, reflection, and grace. The Archdiocese is encouraging all believers to engage in a Year of Preparation, placing special focus on prayer and the Lord’s Prayer. Through this, strengthen their relationship with God and open their hearts to His blessings.

A Journey of Faith and Hope

In an ever-changing world filled with challenges, Archbishop O’Toole highlights the essential role of hope, not only in faith but in daily life. He urges the faithful to cultivate and share this virtue in their families, friendships, and communities.

To support this spiritual journey, the Archdiocese has provided resources and guidance for personal and communal prayer. These materials aim to help individuals grow closer to God and embrace the Jubilee Year as a moment of encountering His love through the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ.

As the preparations continue, Archbishop O’Toole assures the community of his prayers and encourages all to do the same. He invites the faithful to walk together as Pilgrims of Hope, united in faith, as they anticipate the blessings of the Jubilee Year 2025.

For more information and resources, visit the Jubilee Year section on the Archdiocese of Cardiff website.

A First-class Relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis will visit the Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia from 14th to 17th February 2025 as preparations take place for his canonisation by Pope Francis in Rome on 27th April 2025. The relic is a fragment of the membrane surrounding his heart. Blessed Carlo was an Italian boy, born in London, who pursued holiness in his everyday life in Milan before passing away from leukaemia at the age of 15. Using his skills in computer programming and his friendships, he dedicated himself to spreading the Gospel message. He remains an inspiring role model for the young people of our Archdiocese.

Parishioners from the parishes of Tredegar, Ebbw Vale, and Rhymney will have the special opportunity to visit Blessed Carlo Acutis School (formerly Bishop Hedley) in Merthyr Tydfil, where the relic will be present. This visit offers a chance for reflection, prayer, and a deeper connection to Blessed Carlo’s legacy, particularly for those inspired by his faith and use of technology to evangelise.

The relic will be accompanied by Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo of the Diocese of Assisi, who is responsible for bringing Blessed Carlo’s Pericardium Heart Relic to different nations. Monsignor Figueiredo will share first-hand insights into the life and holiness of this remarkable millennial.

The relic will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral Church of St David in Cardiff on Friday 14th February, Belmont Abbey on Saturday 15th February, and St Joseph’s Co-Cathedral in Swansea and Sacred Heart in Morriston on Sunday 16th February. On Monday 17th February, the relic will be taken to Blessed Carlo Acutis School in Merthyr, where Archbishop Mark will celebrate Mass.