Rome: Pope Leo XIV will formally inaugurate the pastoral year of the Diocese of Rome on September 19, 2025, at the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran. The event, scheduled for 6:00 PM local time, will include a liturgical service marking one of the most significant moments in the diocese during the ongoing Holy Jubilee year.

The ceremony will be attended by diocesan vicars, co-vicars, rectors, and three lay representatives from each parish of the Diocese of Rome, which serves more than 2.5 million faithful. Cardinal Vicar Baldassare Reina confirmed Pope’s participation and emphasized that this assembly will guide the spiritual direction of the local Church for the coming year.

The inauguration is set against the backdrop of the 2025 Holy Year of Jubilee, a once-in-a-generation event expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome. Pilgrims have already witnessed major milestones such as the opening of the Holy Doors in Rome’s four papal basilicas, first inaugurated by Pope Francis in December 2024 at St. Peter’s Basilica.

For Pope Leo XIV, elected in May 2025 as the first American pope, the inauguration underscores his deep connection with his role as Bishop of Rome. Shortly after his election, he assumed this role formally at St. John Lateran Basilica, declaring, “I am Roman,” in a gesture that highlighted his commitment to the local diocese.

This upcoming pastoral year inauguration will build upon that commitment, setting the tone for diocesan life and emphasizing the Pope’s vision of a church rooted in pastoral service, community engagement, and renewal during the Holy Jubilee.