Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Merry Christmas!
Christmas begins this evening with vigil Masses held in parishes throughout our diocese. We are filled with hope at the news of our Savior, born of a virgin in humble surroundings.
Today is also the first day of the Jubilee Year 2025 – ending Dec. 23, 2025. The Holy Father will open the holy door at St. Peter’s Basilica at 7 p.m. local time (noon for northwest Iowans) on Christmas Eve.
The Year of Jubilee will mark the 2,025th anniversary of the Incarnation of Our Lord Jesus Christ, God made man. Pope Francis’ theme for this jubilee year is “Pilgrims of Hope,” intending for a year of hope for all, especially in those places that need it so badly.