In the Old Testament, the Jubilee Year was a time of renewal, freedom and celebration.
Debts were cancelled, people and the land could rest, prisoners and slaves were freed and land was given to those who didn’t have any.
It was known as the year of the Lord’s favour. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus read from the prophet Isaiah.

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”

Jesus makes it clear that his mission is to bring the justice and freedom of the Jubilee and we are called to share in his mission. At CAFOD, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, this mission of Jesus is at the heart of what we do.

How can we be Pilgrims of Hope this year?

1. Join us for an Introduction to the Jubilee Year on Saturday January 18, 10.30am-noon, online. With Father Jan Nowotnik, director of mission for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Christine Allen, CAFOD director, and Kayode Akintola, our head of Africa and music from Catholic band Ooberfuse. Register now for free at cafod.org.uk/jubilee
2. Use our reflection guide to explore the biblical background to the Jubilee Year, be encouraged by stories of change and reflect on God’s call for you in this special year. For use in groups, as a church or individually.
3. As we begin the Jubilee Year 2025, we face the most acute global debt crisis in history. Pope Francis has called for action on the debt crisis this year, saying it is a “matter of justice”. Sign the global petition calling for action at cafod.org.uk/campaign
4. You can make a huge difference to people living in poverty this Jubilee Year by giving a regular gift to CAFOD. Support us and our partners across the world, working wherever the need is greatest at cafod.org.uk/give
5. Lend a hand. The Jubilee is a great time to lend us a hand with our work in your parish, local schools or in various other ways. Your help can bring communities together, raise awareness and bear fruit for the Kingdom of God. Visit cafod.org.uk/volunteer
6. Celebrate the Jubilee in Schools. Children and young people in Catholic schools will celebrate the Jubilee year. Join the Jubilee for Schools Launch Day on January 24 2025 and find our framework of events and resources at: jubilee-schools.org.uk

All our Jubilee resources can be found at cafod.org.uk/jubilee

Rachel Blaylock, CAFOD