Pope Francis has issued a letter announcing a new initiative to honour local saints, blesseds, venerables, and servants of God in every diocese on 9 November, starting from the Jubilee of 2025. This move aims to inspire the faithful with testimonies of local holiness and emphasize the universal call to holiness.
The Pope clarified that this is not a new liturgical memorial but an opportunity for dioceses to promote and remember their local saints through non-liturgical initiatives or homilies. Episcopal conferences may develop pastoral guidelines to facilitate this celebration.
In his letter, Pope Francis referenced his apostolic exhortation Gaudete et exsultate, which emphasized the universal call to holiness as taught by the Second Vatican Council. He highlighted that holiness is not solely human effort but rather allowing God to work through individuals.
The Pope encouraged the faithful to recognize witnesses of Christian virtues in their daily lives, such as devoted spouses, dedicated workers, and courageous martyrs. He also acknowledged the importance of beatified and canonized saints, as well as those declared venerable and servants of God.
Pope Francis emphasized that these individuals are companions on the journey to fully realizing one’s baptismal vocation, showcasing the Church’s holy and maternal nature. The letter, signed on the Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, invites dioceses to rediscover and honour their local saints, fostering a deeper sense of community and spiritual connection