As we await the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica by Pope Francis on Christmas Eve, we turn the clock back in our memory 75 years to a similar occasion with Pope Ven. Pius XII. On Dec. 24, 1949, he struck the blocked door with a golden hammer, causing it to fall over. The Holy Jubilee Year of 1950 would witness the momentous proclamation of the dogma of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. “There are periods in the history of humanity in which the voice of God becomes more insistent, more strong, more earnest, in calling mankind to a greater and better realization of the eternal truths. One of these solemn occasions is certainly the Holy Year,” reported Marian Helpers Bulletin. “This is not as some believe, a year of celebration, but rather a year of expiation and sanctification.” In a world still recovering from the ravages of World War II, the Marian Fathers issued a call to action. “Whoever you are dear friend, take to heart this urgent call of the Holy Father. Much depends on your own participation in the spiritual rebirth that will save the world. Your simple, fervent and oft-repeated prayers and your countless good deeds multiplied millions of times the world over will rise like a pleasing sacrifice to God. Souls will find peace with God, nations will be converted, and in your own little heart will burn the warm Pentecostal fire of divine love.” Sound advice for the 2025 Jubilee Year! From the VAULTS 36 Marian Helper • Winter 2024-25 • Marian.org Pope Ven. Pius XII opens the Holy Door for the 1950 Jubilee Year.
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