Pope Francis Opens the Door of Hope: A Historic Visit to Rebibbia Prison

In an unprecedented act of compassion and solidarity, Pope Francis made history on Thursday by opening a “Holy Door” at Rebibbia Prison, one of Italy’s largest prison complexes, as part of the 2025 Catholic Holy Year. Addressing hundreds of inmates, guards, and staff, the pontiff delivered a heartfelt message of hope, urging all present not to lose faith, even in their darkest moments. “In bad moments, we can all think that everything is over,” he said. “Do not lose hope. This is the message I wanted to give you.” This marked the first time in over 700 years that a pope has opened a Holy Door in a prison, underscoring Francis’ enduring commitment to those on society’s margins.

The 2025 Catholic Holy Year, also known as a Jubilee, is themed around hope and will run until January 6, 2026. Traditionally, Holy Doors are opened at the four major basilicas in Rome as symbols of salvation and forgiveness during Jubilee years. By choosing to open one of only five Holy Doors for this Jubilee at a prison chapel, Francis emphasized the universal reach of God’s mercy and the Church’s mission to uplift the downtrodden. Throughout his 11-year papacy, Pope Francis has consistently advocated for the incarcerated, making regular prison visits in Rome and abroad. This historic gesture at Rebibbia Prison is a resounding reminder that, as Francis declared, “hope does not disappoint.”