The Jubilee Year is a sacred time of renewal, mercy, and hope, calling us to deepen our faith and become instruments of God’s peace. Inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, we are invited to live with humility, compassion, and a commitment to justice in every aspect of our lives. Jesus teaches us, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9), reminding us that peace is both a gift and a mission.

St. Francis believed that true peace begins with a converted heart. He taught that we encounter Christ in the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten, and that genuine justice flows from love, mercy, and humility. His life reflected the Gospel through simplicity, service, forgiveness, and care for God’s creation. Inspired by Christ’s command, “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12), Francis showed that loving our neighbor is at the heart of Christian discipleship. His deep respect for all creation also echoes the words of Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.”

For the Archdiocese of San Francisco, this theme encourages us to build communities rooted in love, reconciliation, and respect for the dignity of every person. It reminds us to welcome the stranger, care for those in need, and work together for the common good. As the prophet Micah reminds us, “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

We can live out this theme by praying for peace, practicing forgiveness, serving those who are poor or marginalized, caring for the environment, promoting dialogue instead of division, and treating every person with dignity and compassion. St. Francis showed that even the smallest acts of love can transform lives and bring others closer to God. As St. Paul encourages us, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).

As pilgrims and catechists of hope during this Jubilee Year, may we follow the example of St. Francis by building bridges instead of barriers, choosing mercy over judgment, and reflecting Christ’s peace in all that we do. This is our evangelizing task.  In doing so, we answer God’s call to be faithful witnesses of peace, justice, and love in our families, our communities, and throughout the world.

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” — Prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi