Pope Francis appeared completely different on St. Stephen’s Day, completing another appointment in the middle of the demanding Christmas schedule. While he seemed exhausted and ‘weak’ on December 25, the Pope visibly revived among the prisoners.
The singing was a little off, the clothes were more casual, the Pope was much more lively: Francis’ true priorities became clear on Boxing Day when he visited Rebibbia prison. On the occasion of the Catholic jubilee year of 2025, he opened a so-called Holy Door in the Roman prison and then celebrated a mass with prisoners and prison police.
Prisoners were greeted personally
He personally welcomed the 300 attendees after the service and recognized the art exhibition that the prisoners had designed together with an artist for the Holy Year. He then described the prison as a basilica, like St. Peter’s Basilica.
Video: Rare ritual: Pope opens the Holy Door
Visit at the request of the Pope
The appointment was the express wish of the Pope, who has visited numerous prisons during his time in office. Opening the gate at the prison church should be a sign of hope to regain self-confidence and the appreciation and solidarity of society, the commemorative letter for the papal visit said.
Pope without a wheelchair
The 88-year-old appeared relaxed, gave an impromptu sermon, opened the Holy Door standing and walked through it independently, supported only by his walking stick – without a wheelchair.
On Boxing Day, the Pope wished the prisoners in Rebibbia a “great jubilee year”: the grace of a jubilee is, above all, to open hearts to hope. “This is the message I want to give to you – everyone, including myself: never lose hope!”
Opening of the Holy Year with obstacles
Things were different on Christmas Eve at the official opening of the Holy Year 2025. The Pope was noticeably weaker due to the after-effects of a cold. In the draughty, cold vestibule of St. Peter’s Basilica, he struggled for several minutes with his robe in front of the three-and-a-half-meter-high gate.
In front of high-ranking guests from the church and politics – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was also present – he disappeared suddenly and unannounced. A short time later, the Catholic Church leader returned and prayed silently in front of the portal until it finally opened after knocking several times. Then helpers pushed Francis in his wheelchair over the threshold into the basilica, where he celebrated Christmas mass.
The current anniversary year has the motto ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ – more than 30 million of them are expected in Rome by the end of the anniversary on January 6, 2026.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
