Published on 26/12/2024 09:01
Reading time: 1min – video: 2min
Christmas: Pope Francis opens the holy door of St. Peter's Basilica
Christmas: Pope Francis opens the holy door of St. Peter's Basilica
(franceinfo)
For several years, the heavy bronze door of St. Peter's Basilica remained closed. Now, Catholics are entering a holy year after Pope Francis opened the door.
Many of them, on the morning of December 25, went to Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome (Italy). Thousands of faithful, coming from all over the world, to cross the holy door and thus receive forgiveness. A ritual that the first believers are happy to have accomplished. “I think we can truly be cleansed of our sins.”declares an Australian visitor.
To get through the door, everyone has their own way of doing things. There are those who film with their phone and others who need to touch the doors to better absorb the moment. For many believers, this gesture symbolizes much more than forgiveness. “It means being closer to God and being humble”explains a crying woman.
Sealed since the last jubilee ten years ago, the door was opened by Pope Francis. It will remain open at Saint-Pierre but also in the three other papal basilicas in Rome to welcome the 30 million pilgrims expected until January 2026.
