Portland Peninsula & Island Parishes

The tradition of Jubilee Years in the Catholic Church dates back to the Old Testament concept of a jubilee, a sacred time of renewal and restoration. The first Catholic Jubilee was proclaimed by Pope Boniface VIII in the year 1300, establishing a practicee of offering special graces, indulgences, and opportunities for pilgrimage, particularly to Rome. Traditionally held every 25 years, Jubilee Years are times of spiritual renewal, reconciliation, and mercy, inviting the faithful to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, penance, and acts of charity. Extraordinary Jubilees, such as the Jubilee of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis in 2015, may also be declared at special moments to emphasize particular themes of faith. These sacred years continue to be a profound expression of the Church’s mission to bring Christ’s mercy and redemption to the world.

His Excellency Bishop Ruggieri has established the Cathedral of the Immaculate as a Sacred Jubilee Site inviting the Catholic faithful to plan a pilgrimage to our historic church. Pilgrims visiting the Cathedral may receive a plenary indulgence -- the remission of temporal punishment for sins that have already been forgiven.

To receive a plenary indulgence during your visit this Jubilee Year you must; 

• Be in a state of grace with no knowledge of any unconfessed mortal sin.
• Have a sincere intention of gaining the indulgence.
• Be completely detached from all sin, even venial sins.
• Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation within 7-days before or after your visit to the Cathedral.
• Receive Holy Communion within 7-days before or after your visit.
• Pray for the intentions of the Holy Father. An Our Father and Hail Mary is suggested.