The Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities began with a solemn Mass celebrated by Archbishop Rino Fisichella at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, calling for greater inclusion and dignity for all people, especially those living with disabilities, on April 28.
Archbishop Fisichella, Pro-Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Evangelization, reflected in his homily on three key words—dare, revolution, and ordinary—as essential for true integration.
He emphasized the importance of transforming "them" into “us,” advocating for an authentic community where no one is left alone.
The Eucharistic celebration was inclusive and accessible, with translations in LIS (International Sign Language) for all hymns and prayers. The basilica was equipped with ramps and other signs of welcome, allowing for full participation by persons with disabilities.
The archbishop invoked the legacy of the late Pope Francis, praying that his vision of a merciful and inclusive Church would “remain alive” in the hearts of the faithful.
He cited the biblical account of Peter and John healing a paralyzed man, highlighting the Church’s mission to restore autonomy and dignity to those on the margins.
Among the hundreds present was Cristina Borlotti, head of the Pastoral Office for Persons with Disabilities in the Diocese of Bergamo.
She underscored the need to change both language and culture, saying, “No longer ‘the disabled,’ but persons with disabilities.”
The celebration is part of a larger three-day program that includes catechesis in St. Peter’s Square, confessions, communal meals, and a festival at Castel Sant’Angelo.
The Via della Conciliazione will host testimonies and exhibitions showcasing the resilience and joy of life in vulnerability.
As young pilgrims like Luca from Varmo shared their dreams of autonomy and inclusion, the Jubilee opened not only with liturgy but with a bold call for a cultural transformation grounded in hope and fraternity.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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