Advent calls Catholics to renew their faith and prepare for jubilee year of hope

During the season of Advent, which begins Sunday, December 1, 2024, Christians focus on prayer and the sacraments to prepare their hearts to receive Jesus at Christmas. This Advent season leads up to Jubilee 2025, a special year of grace called for by Pope Francis as a time to be renewed in hope.

The jubilee year begins in Rome on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024. The Diocese of Pittsburgh will mark the start of the jubilee year on Holy Family Saturday, December 28, 2024, with a procession to Saint Paul Cathedral and Mass at 4 p.m.
 
“This Advent season is a beautiful opportunity to invite Jesus into our lives as we prepare for Christmas and the start of the jubilee year of hope,” said Bishop David Zubik. 
On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, every parish in the diocese will offer “The Light is On for You“ for the sacrament of confession, so that everyone can easily find a location that’s convenient, even if it’s not their home parish. 
 
“Jesus is waiting to forgive you your sins through the person of the priest. Don’t let shame for your sins or the length of time since your last confession hold you back. Come to experience Jesus’ mercy and love,” Bishop Zubik said. 

Parishes all have activities to help people grow in faith during Advent, and everyone is welcome to come. 

This year, the Diocese of Pittsburgh is offering a text-to-join Advent devotional focus. Text 2024ADVENT to 84576 to receive daily text messages from December 1-25, helping you to prepare your heart for Jesus’ coming.
 
For more information about Advent, and the jubilee year, and for the schedule for Christmas Masses in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, visit: https://diopitt.org/advent.