What's happened
Pope Francis inaugurated a live webcam at St. Peter's Basilica today, allowing virtual access to the tomb of St. Peter. This initiative aims to connect with millions of pilgrims expected during the 2025 Jubilee, which will also feature a webcam at the Holy Door, symbolizing spiritual access for those unable to travel.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Angela Giuffrida in The Guardian, the Vatican's initiative includes a webcam at the tomb of St. Peter and another at the Holy Door, which will be opened by Pope Francis on Christmas Eve. This move is seen as a way to provide 'symbolic access' to those who cannot make the pilgrimage to Rome. The Independent highlights that the Jubilee is expected to attract 32 million pilgrims, emphasizing the significance of indulgences granted during this period. AP News also notes the Vatican's broader communications strategy, including a new magazine where Pope Francis addresses reader questions, showcasing the Church's efforts to engage with its followers in modern ways.
How we got here
The 2025 Jubilee is a significant event for Catholics, occurring every 25 years. It is expected to attract around 33 million pilgrims to Rome, prompting the Vatican to enhance its digital outreach through technology, including live streaming and virtual tours.
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