Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan in the Philippines urged the Catholic faithful to embrace their mission as “Pilgrims of Hope” as the Church officially launched the Jubilee Year 2025 during his homily on the Feast of the Holy Family.
The Jubilee Year, declared by Pope Francis, bears the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” which Cardinal David described as a special kind of traveler.
“The pilgrim is a unique kind of traveler. Unlike those whose journeys are for tourism, business, or other purposes, a pilgrim travels with a sacred devotion. That’s why I suggest translating the term as ‘Devout Travelers of Hope,’” the Cardinal said in his homily.
Resilience in Faith
Reflecting on Filipino optimism, Cardinal David highlighted a recent survey indicating that 96% of Filipinos expressed hope for a better future in 2024, even amidst adversity.
He attributed this resilience to the country’s strong faith. “Our high level of hope is deeply rooted in our trust that ‘While there is life, there is hope.’ Despite the trials we face, we always hold on to the belief that ‘God is merciful’ and ‘God will take care of everything.’”
Cardinal David acknowledged, however, that this hope is not universal. Many Filipinos continue to live in poverty or endure inhumane conditions, exacerbated by natural disasters and societal challenges.
He noted the increasing prevalence of mental health issues as signs that “all is not well in our country.”
Jubilee Year’s Mission
The Cardinal emphasized that the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope” serves as an invitation to reignite faith and courage.
“Pope Francis chose this theme to restore an atmosphere of trust and confidence, to rekindle the flame of hope within us, and to help everyone draw new strength and certainty as we look toward the future with open hearts, peace of mind, and a long horizon.”
He reminded the faithful that Christian hope is rooted in God’s love. “Love is the foundation of our hope; we persevere because we are loved by God,” he said, quoting St. Paul: “Nothing can separate us from the love of God, neither death, nor the present, nor things to come” (cf. Romans 8:39).
Synodality and Unity
Cardinal David called for unity and collective action in the spirit of synodality. “We are called to continue journeying together in the spirit of synodality. Using the Final Document of the Synod on Synodality as our guide, we begin to cross over together,” he said, referencing the Gospel of Mark (4:35).
He pointed to the Jubilee Year logo, which depicts the People of God on a boat navigating rough seas with the cross as their anchor.
“We are called to transform our relationships to grow in friendship and communion, to learn to trust and listen to one another,” he added.
A Call to Mission
Encouraging the faithful to embrace their role as missionary disciples, Cardinal David said, “As Pilgrims of Hope, we are sent to form a community of missionary disciples.
The Ordinary Jubilee Year of 2025 is the best opportunity to begin shaping synodality in our basic ecclesial communities, parishes, and dioceses. Together, we journey in hope. Together, we walk in love.”
He concluded by invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the intercession of the Virgin Mary. “May the Holy Spirit inspire us to live as a synodal Church on a mission. May we be a community journeying toward the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom. May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, lead us closer to Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
