by Sharon Matthews, CAFOD
Catholic schools in Leeds and throughout the UK are invited to celebrate the Jubilee Year as pilgrims of hope
Pope Francis has earmarked 2025 as a Holy Jubilee Year, calling for the global church to be “Pilgrims of Hope”, working together for God’s kingdom of justice, peace and love, and standing in solidarity with the world’s poorest communities. It’s an invitation to renew our hope, a hope which comes from knowing that God loves each one of us, whoever we are.
The church is encouraging schools to take an active part in celebrations. “There will be opportunities for the whole school community to experience the joy of sharing their faith in prayer and worship, and to take action together as pilgrims of hope,” says Catholic Education Service Chairman, the Rt. Rev. Marcus Stock. “For no one should live without hope.”
CAFOD is working together with the Catholic Education Service and the Caritas Social Action Network to support school communities in celebrating the Jubilee year. On a journey from Launch Day to Pledge Day to Celebration Day, a range of engaging resources will encourage pupils to stand in solidarity with the world’s poorest communities, sharing hope that’s rooted in love and faith.
Through prayers, animations and activities, children and young people will have the opportunity to explore and experience the vital role they have as agents of change, recognising that a better world needs all of us. Central on the journey as pilgrims of hope, Pledge Day will be a key moment when the school community makes a long-term commitment to working towards the common good.
This special Jubilee year provides many opportunities to enhance and celebrate the Catholic life and mission of a school. Catholic Social Teaching is at the heart of the Jubilee message and pupils in Catholic schools across England and Wales can put CST into action by fundraising to support people experiencing poverty around the world.
CAFOD’s Big Lent Walk is a wonderful way to experience the joy of standing in solidarity as pilgrims of hope. Schools can join the Big Lent Walk 2025 as part of their Jubilee commitment by visiting cafod.org.uk/blwschools.
How can schools get involved
There are three key dates throughout the year for schools to celebrate the Jubilee year together. Make sure to mark them in your calendar!
Launch Day for schools 24 Jan 2025 – embark on a shared journey and mark this Holy Year as a significant and memorable moment.
Pledge Day June/July 2025 – make a Jubilee Pledge, a long-term commitment to the common good and look outwards, advancing justice and harmony.
Celebration Day 21 Nov 2025 – celebrating all that was achieved together during the Jubilee year and looking to the future with hope!
Resources to support the Jubilee year – from Launch Day to Pledge Day
Visit jubilee-schools.org.uk to find a wealth of resources and information to support you throughout the year. Schools can also order outdoor banners to mark the Jubilee Year, available through CAFOD: shop.cafod.org.uk
