The Vatican has announced the theme for the 2025 World Day of Peace, January 1, 2025: “Forgive us our trespasses: grant us your peace.”
This theme, chosen by Pope Francis, reflects the spirit of the Jubilee Year, emphasizing forgiveness and the pursuit of peace.
Rooted in Biblical and Church tradition, the theme draws inspiration from Pope Francis’s encyclicals Laudato si’ and Fratelli tutti. It highlights the essential roles of hope and forgiveness during the Jubilee—a time dedicated to transformation and reconciliation rather than judgment.
The Vatican’s statement underscores the relevance of this theme in addressing today’s conflicts and social injustices.
As the world prepares for the 2025 Jubilee, this theme calls all “not to condemn, but instead to bring about reconciliation and peace” in a divided world.
This theme resonates deeply with Pax Christi’s mission to promote peace, justice, and reconciliation in our world, reinforcing our commitment to fostering dialogue and nonviolent solutions in the face of global challenges.
So I was hoping someone with a more clerical grounding might comment on this beautiful Jubilee Year inspired by the equally beautiful Laudato si . . .Any clerics listening or anyone else who can tear themselves away from social media for 5 minutes? Guys, we’re on the verge of a possible nuclear conflagration in both Eastern Europe and the Middle East and no one gives a fig. If we ever needed the grace and wisdom that flows from a Jubilee Year, it!s now. But then again, who cares?
David-Ross Gerling, PhD