The Jubilee of Persons with Disabilities opened with a profound expression of faith and unity as Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect Emeritus of the Dicastery for Evangelization, celebrated Mass at the historic Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. In his homily, the Archbishop invoked bold and seemingly paradoxical words—“dare,” “revolution,” and “ordinary”—to highlight the transformative power of integration, which he described as turning the “them” into “us” without fanfare or exceptionality.

With deep emotion, Archbishop Fisichella emphasized that in a truly inclusive community, “no one can remain alone.” The Eucharistic celebration was designed to be accessible to all, with hymns and prayers translated into LIS (International Sign Language), embodying the Church's evolving embrace of inclusivity.

The Mass took place at the centuries-old Basilica that holds the remains of the Apostle Paul, a site of pilgrimage for over 2,000 years. Modern adaptations, such as wheelchair ramps over ancient marble steps, symbolized a fusion of tradition and accessibility.

During his homily, the Archbishop reflected on the story of Peter and John healing a paralyzed man—not through material means, but by invoking the name of Jesus. The miracle, he said, was not just physical healing, but a restoration of dignity, autonomy, and strength. He urged the faithful to follow the early Church’s example—not by demanding special treatment, but by finding the courage “not to remain silent.”

Among the pilgrims was Cristina Borlotti from Bergamo, who brought 500 companions to Rome. As head of her diocese’s Pastoral Office for Persons with Disabilities, she advocates for weaving inclusion into the fabric of daily life, not isolating it on special tracks. “Not ‘the disabled,’ but persons with disabilities,” she stressed, pointing to language as a tool that can either unite or divide.

At a related conference titled We: Pilgrims of Hope, participants explored the growing cultural shift toward inclusion. Accessibility advocate Marta Russo, president of “Diritti Diretti,” highlighted a national education initiative encouraging students to champion equity. Echoing the vision of Pope Francis, she spoke of a needed “cultural revolution” in how society sees and supports people with disabilities.

Another pilgrim, Luca from Varmo, once thought it unimaginable to travel to Rome in a wheelchair. Now, participating in this Jubilee, he shared dreams of a future where such journeys are no longer extraordinary, but part of everyday dignity and joy.

The Jubilee's inaugural day included a pilgrimage to the Holy Door and opportunities for confession at the Church of St. John Baptist of the Florentines. Activities continue with catechesis in St. Peter’s Square and celebrations in the gardens of Castel Sant’Angelo. Along the Via della Conciliazione, the spirit of the event will flourish through food, music, and personal testimonies—highlighting the resilience and joy found in living with vulnerability.