Opening the Holy Door invites you to step into the heart of the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope—a time marked by renewal, grace, and the rediscovery of faith. With the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica open and pilgrims traveling from every corner of the world, this book offers a spiritual pilgrimage for all who seek deeper understanding of this ancient tradition, whether in Rome or at home.
Scripture teacher and veteran Rome guide Joan Watson leads readers panel by panel through the sixteen bronze scenes adorning the Holy Door, each one depicting a moment in the great story of salvation. With biblical insight and practical reflection, she shows how these sacred images reveal God’s redemptive love—and how that same story continues in your own life.
Along the way, you will:
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Witness the angels at Eden and the Annunciation, where hope is lost and found again.
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Reflect on Christ’s Incarnation, Baptism, Passion, and Death.
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Encounter the paralyzed man healed by Jesus and the woman who anointed his feet.
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Walk beside Peter, Thomas, and Paul as they struggle, doubt, and are transformed by grace.
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Meditate on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the Giver of Hope, who renews all creation.
Opening the Holy Door is more than a guidebook—it’s a call to rediscover the Church’s living tradition and to cross the threshold of faith with new courage. Whether you make the pilgrimage physically or spiritually, this book will deepen your understanding of the Jubilee and help you enter more fully into the mystery of God’s mercy.
About the Authors
Joan Watson is a Catholic speaker, writer, and podcaster. She serves as associate editor of Integrated Catholic Life and as pilgrim formation manager for Verso Ministries. Watson holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Christendom College and a master’s degree in theology and Christian ministry from Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is the founder of Living 1 John 1, an online community dedicated to helping Catholics pray with scripture. She lives in South Bend, Indiana, with her husband.
Deacon Greg Kandra was ordained for the Diocese of Brooklyn in 2007 and is the author of A Deacon Prays and The Busy Person’s Guide to Prayer. Before entering ministry, he worked as a writer and producer at CBS News for programs including 60 Minutes II and 48 Hours, earning multiple Peabody and Emmy Awards. Kandra’s writing has appeared in America, U.S. Catholic, and The Tablet. He lives in Florida, where he serves as a deacon for the Diocese of Orlando.
