Pope Francis has inaugurated the Holy Door at Rebibbia Prison in a deeply symbolic act aimed at including the global prison population in the Jubilee of Hope. Walking through the Holy Door unaided, unlike his previous wheelchair-assisted entrance at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope was joined by Auxiliary Bishop Benoni Ambarus. In his remarks, Francis expressed his desire for the second Holy Door to be located in a prison, emphasizing the need for both inmates and the outside world to open their hearts and embrace hope. Approximately 300 inmates and correctional officers were present for the mass held in the prison chapel.
Justice Minister Carlo Nordio and other officials, including Giovanni Russo, the head of the prison administration, attended the mass. Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, the Pope reflected on the precarious nature of freedom, stating, “Every time I come to prison, I ask myself why them and not me… It’s essential not to lose hope.” When asked about potential acts of clemency for inmates discussed with the Justice Minister, the Pope confirmed their conversation focused on the detainees’ current situation rather than specific clemency measures.
In his homily, Pope Francis urged everyone to keep their hearts open, reiterating, “Open wide the doors of your heart; each of us knows how to do this.” He explained that today’s opening of the Holy Door symbolizes a call to openness and compassion. At the conclusion of the mass, the Pope personally greeted attendees, sharing smiles and words of encouragement. The event was particularly meaningful, as only four Holy Doors are designated for this Jubilee, and the Pope insisted on this additional one in a prison, emphasizing the importance of hope and community even in the most challenging circumstances.
