NEW for the Year of Jubilee

Every twenty-five years, pilgrims from all over the world flock to Rome for a jubilee year to witness the opening of a special door on the north side of St. Peter’s Basilica—the Holy Door—and to receive a special blessing by passing through it. This bronze Holy Door uniquely depicts the salvation story, from the dawn of creation to the present, through sixteen panels that inspire the faithful to connect their lives to the timeless story of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.

Explore the salvation story through the 16 panels of St. Peter’s Basilica’s Holy Door with Opening the Holy Door by Joan Watson. Perfect for both pilgrims and armchair travelers, this guide offers scripture-based reflections and imaginative prayer to deepen your faith and celebrate the Year of Hope.

Hope-Filled Scripture Reflections from St. Peter's Basilica

Whether you’re preparing for a visit to the Holy Door or embarking on an armchair pilgrimage from home, these reflections provide a meaningful way to celebrate the Year of Hope by exploring the people and holy moments that have been revered for centuries by Christians all over the world. Each reflection will help you to cross the spiritual threshold of this iconic door—located in the heart of the Church—as you enliven and enrich your faith by contemplating their timeless beauty.

This book is more than a guide for the jubilee year; it’s a spiritual companion for anyone seeking answers and hope in a fractured world.

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Customer Testimonials

When Joan Watson offers spiritual wisdom, I pay attention. You should too. Opening the Holy Door has already deepened my hope in Jesus-and I expect it will do the same for you.

JD Flynn

Whether you’re preparing for a visit to the Holy Door or embarking on an armchair pilgrimage from home, the scriptural reflections in Opening the Holy Door provide a meaningful way to celebrate the Year of Hope by exploring the people and holy moments that have been revered for centuries by Christians all over the world. Each reflection will help you to cross the spiritual threshold of this iconic door—located in the heart of the Church—as you enliven and enrich your faith by contemplating their timeless beauty.