Editor’s note: It’s been two months since the Jubilee Year, named Pilgrims of Hope, concluded on Jan. 6, 2026. In that time, one St. Catherine of Siena parishioner has had an opportunity to reflect on how her faith community joined with the universal Church.
TARBORO — During the Jubilee Year, they were all honored: Altar servers, farm workers, faith formation teachers, liturgical ministers, choir members, youth, parents, families, grandparents and children.
St. Catherine of Siena Parish observed the Jubilee Year, which took place Dec. 24, 2024 until Jan. 6 of this year, through a series of special Mass celebrations that were dedicated to the many groups that make up the life of the Church.
Rooted in ancient tradition and renewed with local spirit, each celebration offered parishioners an opportunity to reflect on God’s mercy, strengthen their faith and recognize the unique contributions of every ministry within the parish. By celebrating them together, the parish emphasizes unity, gratitude, and shared mission.
A highlight of each celebration was the procession through the parish’s specially decorated “holy doors.” These doors, adorned to symbolize renewal and God’s abundant grace, offered the faithful a tangible expression of pilgrimage and spiritual crossing.
As each celebrating group entered through the holy doors, they received prayers tailored to their vocation and role within the parish.
After each Mass, warm hospitality was present as parishioners brought food to share and represented the diverse backgrounds and traditions of the community. The shared meals brought nourishment, friendship and belonging.
These jubilee celebrations became a cherished time to honor tradition, build community and renew commitment to the mission of the Church.
Photos
Courtesy of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Tarboro
