Pope Francis brings hope to Rome's main prison community

On December 25, 2024, Pope Francis visited Rebibbia prison in Rome to inaugurate the Holy Year, delivering a message of hope to the inmates. This visit is part of the Catholic Church's Holy Year celebration, a tradition that dates back to 1300 and occurs every 25 years, attracting millions of pilgrims to Rome. The Holy Year began with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica on Christmas Eve, symbolizing a time for renewal and spiritual reflection among the faithful. During his visit, Pope Francis stood up from his wheelchair, knocked on the chapel door, and walked inside, mirroring his actions at St. Peter's Basilica. He expressed his desire for inmates to experience a sense of hope, urging them to