Faro, May 30, 2025 – In a touching display of faith and community, the Bishop of Algarve, D. Manuel Quintas, presided over the Jubilee of the Prisoners as part of the Holy Year 2025 celebrations at the Silves Prison. The event, which included a Eucharistic celebration, brought together inmates, prison staff, and clergy in a powerful moment of unity and hope.
A Celebration Behind Bars
The Mass, held on Wednesday, May 28, saw the participation of detainees from the western Algarve judicial districts, including Aljezur, Vila do Bispo, Monchique, Lagos, and Portimão. The service was attended by inmates, members of the prison's administration, social reintegration services, and prison guards, alongside diocesan priests Fábio Pedro and Getúlio Bica, and the parish priest of Silves, Father Rafael Rocha.
A Surprise for the Bishop
At the end of the Mass, the congregation sang 'Happy Birthday' to Bishop Manuel Quintas, celebrating his 25 years of episcopacy. The bishop was greeted with warmth and even a surprise cake, as shared by Father Rafael Rocha on his Facebook page.
Fellowship and Future Celebrations
Following the Mass, a moment of fellowship was shared with the inmates, featuring a snack provided by the parishioners of Silves. The day concluded with a lunch attended by prison staff, the Prison Guard Corps, and special guests, including the commander of the GNR Silves Detachment, the president of the Parish Council, and the director of the Piaget Higher School of Health.
The Prison Pastoral of the Diocese of Algarve continues its mission, with the Faro team supporting the Algarve capital's prison. Families of inmates are set to participate in the Jubilee of Families on May 31 at the Sé.
Looking Ahead
The global Jubilee of Prisoners for the Holy Year 2025 will be celebrated on December 14 in Rome and the Vatican. The Catholic Church is currently observing the Holy Year 2025, the 27th ordinary jubilee in history, initiated by Pope Francis under the theme of hope and continued by Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of the Jubilee at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on December 24, 2024, and made a historic visit to Rebibbia Prison in Rome on December 26, where he opened another Holy Door, urging all, especially prisoners, to 'never lose Hope' because it 'never disappoints.'
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