California Bishops Declare July 26 as Jubilee of Marriage During the Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee Year

(May 29, 2025) SACRAMENTO, CA — In a joyful affirmation that the marriage of a man and woman is a pilgrimage of hope, the Bishops of California have declared Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Jubilee of Marriage, to be celebrated as part of the Church’s broader Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee Year. This special day honors married couples as “pilgrims of hope” and encourages those who aspire to the sacrament of marriage. They are a profound sign of hope for both the Church and the world.

Each California diocese will commemorate the Jubilee of Marriage, encouraging opportunities for families to strengthen their marriages, deepen their faith, and celebrate the blessings of married life. More information about diocesan celebrations and how to participate is available at cacatholic.org/marriage.

“The vocation of marriage is not only a personal covenant between a man and a woman, but a public witness to love, faith, and perseverance,” said California Catholic Conference President, Bishop Oscar Cantú. “We invite all couples and families to participate in this day of joy, reflection, and service.”

Families are encouraged to celebrate the Jubilee of Marriage in simple yet meaningful ways:

• Pray Together
  Seek the intercession of SS. Anne and Joachim, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Couples can also learn how to receive a plenary indulgence as part of this spiritual observance.
• Share a Special Meal
  Host a family dinner, look through wedding photos, and reflect on how your marriage has shaped your lives, your faith, and your family’s journey.
• Serve Together
  Take part in a family service project that reflects the love at the heart of your marriage. Volunteering in your parish to help those in need, as well as participating in other worthwhile works of mercy, are powerful expressions of married and family love that overflow into society.

The Jubilee of Marriage marks the culmination of the California bishops’ year-long Radiate Love campaign, a statewide movement dedicated to renewing and celebrating the sacrament of marriage. With 12 bishops united in mission, the campaign sparked widespread engagement – over 100,000 video views of bishop reflections, more than 1,000 email sign-ups, and thousands of in-person connections through prayer cards and events. Hundreds of parishes across California embraced the initiative with special prayers and blessings, while each diocese hosted retreats, workshops, clergy study days, and dynamic presentations by national speakers. From nine anniversary Masses and eight major webinars to a full year of resources and more than 40 published articles, Radiate Love has reignited hearts and strengthened marriages throughout the state.

There is still time to get involved! To find diocesan events, prayer resources, and family activity ideas, or to sign up for updates, visit cacatholic.org/marriage.

Media Contact:
Kim Nickols
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(916) 313-4000