In the 15th century, the basilica that Emperor Constantine had built around the tomb of St. Peter was cracked and falling apart, having stood for 1,100 years. Through taxes, papal revenues and the controversial sale of indulgences, Pope Julius II launched…
What ‘hope’ has represented in Christian history – and what it might mean now
Pope Leo XIV closed the door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Jan. 6, 2026, just days into the new year. The act formally brought the Vatican’s Holy Year 2025 – designated as “Pilgrims of Hope” – to an end.