The Vatican has unveiled new initiatives by St. Peter’s Basilica in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year, including the introduction of a new magazine titled “Piazza San Pietro.” This publication will be available in Italian, English, and Spanish. A notable feature of the monthly magazine will be a “Letters to the Editor” column, where Pope Francis will personally respond to readers’ letters.
The inaugural issue, which spans 86 pages, includes a response from Pope Francis to a grandmother concerned about her grandchild not being baptized by their parents. The Pope emphasizes that while baptizing a child signifies trust in the Lord and the Holy Spirit, it cannot be forced upon parents who do not wish it for their children. He advises continuing the dialogue “with hope, meekness, and charity.”
In a speech launching the magazine, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, the archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, described its publication as “a courageous choice,” driven by the creativity and energy of Father Enzo Fortunato, the communications director for St. Peter’s Basilica. Fortunato highlighted Pope Francis’ call for journalists to “wear out the soles of your shoes,” a reminder of traditional journalism that emphasizes deeper immersion in reality and direct contact with people.
The monthly subscription for “Piazza San Pietro” is priced at €30, with individual copies available for €4. Father Fortunato assured that “those who cannot afford it will receive it for free.” Additionally, a livestream of the tomb of St. Peter in the Vatican grottoes and the basilica's Holy Door will be available, allowing those unable to travel to Rome to experience these sites during the Jubilee. Pope Francis is set to inaugurate the live webcam of the tomb on December 2nd.
St. Peter’s Basilica also plans to utilize social networks to “share the love for this sacred place and provide useful information in anticipation of the upcoming Jubilee.” The 2025 Jubilee, a once-every-25-year event, is expected to draw 32 million pilgrims to Rome and will be celebrated from December 24, 2024, to January 6, 2026.
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