Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy to gather 500 priests at the Vatican

From March 28 to 30, 2025, the sixth major Jubilee event will gather 500 Missionaries of Mercy from around the world at the Vatican.

The event will bring together priests from countries including the United States, Italy, Poland, Brazil, Spain, France, Mexico, Germany, Slovakia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Ukraine, Colombia, and India.

The Missionaries of Mercy were first appointed by Pope Francis during the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2015 and have the special authority to forgive even sins reserved to the Apostolic See.

Their numbers continue to grow, with 1,258 priests worldwide now serving in this role.

Although Pope Francis will not attend in person due to health reasons, he is expected to send a written message to the attendees.

Key Highlights of the Jubilee Event

March 28: The Opening and Conference on Forgiveness
The event will begin with a prayer at 10 AM in the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall, followed by the Fourth World Meeting of Missionaries of Mercy.

Themed "Forgiveness as a Source of Hope," the conference will include a theological session led by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization.

March 28-29: The “24 Hours for the Lord” Reconciliation Initiative
Missionaries will gather at Sant'Andrea della Valle Basilica in Rome for “24 Hours for the Lord,” a Lenten initiative promoting prayer and confession, inspired by Pope Francis in 2013.

This year’s theme is “You are my hope” (Psalm 71:5), aligning with the Jubilee Year of Hope.

March 29: Pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica & Rosary in Vatican Gardens
Missionaries will cross the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in a pilgrimage, followed by a Rosary prayer at the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens.

March 30: Closing Mass and Jubilee Concert
The event will conclude with a Mass at Sant’Andrea della Valle Basilica, led by Archbishop Rino Fisichella.

In the afternoon, participants can attend a free symphonic concert, “Missa Papae Francisci,” in memory of Ennio Morricone, at the Church of Santi Ambrogio e Carlo al Corso in Rome.

This Jubilee of the Missionaries of Mercy serves as a profound reminder of the Church’s mission of forgiveness and compassion, bringing together priests dedicated to spreading God's mercy across the world.