WORCESTER—The Diocese of Worcester is launching a Jubilee Year of Hope, coinciding with its 75th anniversary, beginning with a special opening liturgy on Dec. 29. The event features a procession from St. John Church to the Cathedral of St. Paul, where a Mass will include the blessing of decrees for ten local pilgrimage churches.
Bishop Robert J. McManus, in an announcement, highlighted the Jubilee’s theme of spiritual renewal and pilgrimage and the importance of strengthening faith through prayer and reconciliation. The diocese has designated ten pilgrimage sites, including the Cathedral of Saint Paul in Worcester and churches in Gardner, Spencer, and Webster.
Throughout 2025, the diocese hosts special events, including an Ecumenical celebration, a multicultural Marian procession, and a Parish Ministry awards banquet at the DCU Grand Ballroom. McManus leads evening prayers at the pilgrimage churches, promoting reconciliation as a cornerstone of the Jubilee.
To commemorate the diocesan diamond jubilee, special prayer cards and a “Pilgrim’s Guide” highlighting the ten churches will be distributed. Additionally, historic features in The Catholic Free Press will reflect on the diocese’s rich history.
“We celebrate our past with hope for the future,” said Bishop McManus in a press release. “This Jubilee year is a reminder of our mission to evangelize and serve our community.”
The Jubilee concludes with a closing mass on Dec. 28, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Paul.
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