Year of Mercy opens with Holy Doors

Pope Francis unfastened the doors of St. Peter's Basilica 

Pope Francis prepares to open the door Dec. 8. An estimated 50,000 people turned up to the Renaissance plaza. Max Rossi / Reuters.

The Holy Doors were opened to commemorate the official beginning of the Jubilee of Mercy by Pope Francis. The opening of the doors has been a ritual in the Catholic Church since the 1500s. Read more here.

Special Catholic video series for jubilee celebration

A scene from from the promotional video for the Jubilee of Mercy. The video was released Nov. 13.

Ascension Press has prepared a four video series inspired by the Year of Mercy. Father Mike Schmitz, Father Josh Johnson, Father Matt Guckin, and Jeff Cavins will present on "unpacking the graces of the Year of Mercy." The promotional video and subscription list can be found here.