Holy Week is the heart of the Christian liturgical calendar, a time when we remember and relive the central mysteries of our faith: the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the context of the Holy Year 2025, called by Pope Francis under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” we are invited to live these holy days with renewed depth and spiritual commitment.

The Holy Year 2025: A Call to Hope

In the papal bull of convocation for the Jubilee titled Spes non confounded ("Hope does not disappoint"), Pope Francis reminds us that we are called to be "tangible signs of hope for our brothers and sisters who live in conditions of destitution" (Vatican, 2024). This Holy Year is an opportunity to renew our faith and become true pilgrims of hope, bringing light to those who need it most.

Holy Week: A Path of Hope

Holy Week offers us a spiritual journey that reflects the path of the pilgrim: from the darkness of Good Friday to the radiant light of the Resurrection. It is a time to meditate on Christ's sacrifice and the hope His victory over death offers us. During this Holy Year, we are encouraged to deepen our understanding of this mystery, allowing hope to permeate every aspect of our lives.

Magdala: A Place of Encounter and Renewal

Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Magdala is an archaeological site of great historical and spiritual significance. Recognized as the birthplace of Mary Magdalene, it offers pilgrims a unique connection to the roots of our faith. Visiting Magdala during Holy Week provides a profound immersion in the settings where Jesus preached and performed miracles, enriching our understanding and experience of these holy days.

Preparing for Holy Week as Pilgrims of Hope

To fully live Holy Week in the context of the Holy Year 2025, let us consider the following practices:

• Prayer and Reflection: Set aside time for personal and communal prayer, meditating on the Scriptures and the meaning of Christ's Passion and Resurrection.
• Active Participation in the Liturgy: Attend the liturgical celebrations of the Paschal Triduum, fully engaging in the rites and symbols that bring us closer to the Paschal mystery.
• Works of Mercy: In alignment with the Po'e’s call to be signs of hope, let us find concrete ways to serve others, especially the most in need.
• Spiritual Pilgrimage: If traveling physically to holy sites like Magdala is not possible, consider making a spiritual pilgrimage from home, using online resources, and dedicating time to virtually visit the significant places in Jesus' life.

Living Holy Week as pilgrims of hope during the Holy Year 2025 is an invitation to renew our Christian faith and commitment. Through prayer, liturgical participation, works of mercy, and connecting with holy sites like Magdala, we can experience the Paschal mystery more profoundly and become true bearers of hope in the world.

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