Hey there,
There are moments in life when time seems to pause, when ordinary routines give way to something extraordinary … a chance to step into a season that calls for reflection, renewal, and joy. Living in North Texas, I don’t get to see snow very often, but I absolutely love snow. Everything is covered in quiet white and familiar streets feel new. Everything is the same, yet everything is different, and for a moment, we see what has been there all along in a new light.
The Catholic Church offers us such moments through Jubilee Years, special seasons set apart for mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. This year, we celebrate the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi and enter a Special Year of St. Francis, proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV. From January 10, 2026, to January 10, 2027, we are invited to participate in this Franciscan Jubilee Year through prayer, pilgrimage, works of charity, and reflection on the life of the Saint who showed the world the beauty of simplicity, peace, and mercy.
In this issue of Genuflect, we cover reflections that help guide your participation: the decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary explaining the Jubilee and associated plenary indulgences, the insights of the Regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary on mercy and authentic conversion, curated resources to learn more about Saint Francis, reflections on the biblical and theological roots of the Jubilee, and the enduring call of the Church to imitate Christ through Francis’ witness to peace.
Just as the first snowfall transforms familiar streets, the Franciscan Jubilee Year invites us to see the ordinary of our lives in a new light. May this year encourage each of us to live with greater mercy, simplicity, and joy, following the example of Saint Francis, and may the graces offered through this Jubilee lead us closer to God and to one another.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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genuflect: resources
Franciscan Jubilee Year Decree
As the Church commemorates 800 years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, a special Jubilee Year has been declared, inviting us into a deeper conversion, mercy, and peace. This article introduces the decree that explains why this year matters and how we are called to participate.
Decree of The Apostolic Penitentiary | Holy See
Pope Leo’s Declaration
In declaring a “Special Year of St. Francis,” Pope Leo XIV explains why Saint Francis still speaks powerfully to the modern world … not through solutions, but through the witness of his life. This article invites us to reflect on the Jubilee as a call to reconciliation, peace, and imitation of Christ.
Pope Leo XIV Proclaims ‘Special Year of St. Francis’ | Catholic News Agency
An Encounter With God
As the Year of Saint Francis begins, the Regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary reflects on the meaning of indulgence and warns against reducing the Jubilee to a spiritual shortcut. His words invite us to consider how this sacred year is meant to shape daily Christian life, not just extraordinary moments.
Year of Saint Francis: ‘Indulgence is an Encounter With God, Not a Spiritual Shortcut’ | Vatican News
Franciscan Resources
As we begin the Franciscan Jubilee Year, these curated resources offer multiple ways to learn about Saint Francis of Assisi … and engage more deeply with his life and spirituality. From writings and books to quotes and films, this collection is designed to help you enter into the spirit of the Jubilee.
The Special Year of St. Francis Assisi Catholic Guide to Resources | Catholic Link
What is a Jubilee Year?
What does the Church mean when it speaks of a Jubilee Year? This article explains the biblical roots of jubilee—from Scripture to the words of Jesus—and why the Church sees it as a time of mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal for all.
What is a Jubilee in The Catholic Church? | Aleteia
History of Jubilees
This article is a little dated … it was written before Pope Leo declared the Franciscan Jubilee Year. It speculates about what could come next. But what I found so interesting is the background it gives on past Jubilees. You may find it interesting too.
Is 2026 The Year of Something? On to The Next Holy Year or Jubilee | Aleteia
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