On the 12^th May 2008, H.L. Bishop Charles Caruana presided over a Solemn Mass. Within the same, he declared opened a “Jubilee Year” on the occasion of the seventh centenary in which the continent of Europe was consecrated to Our Lady of Europe. Such is the importance of this historical event that the Holy Father has granted an ‘Indulgence’ to devotees and faithful to Our Lady who fulfil certain prerequisites.

 

“Shout joyfully to God, all you on earth; sing of his glorious name; give him glorious praise. Say to God: “How awesome your deeds!” [Ps. 66:1-3]

What exactly is a “Jubilee”? In Jewish History, it was a year of preparation and emancipation (Lev. 25). The word itself is derived from the Hebrew “yobel”, or “ram’s horn” which was blown on this occasion. Within the Catholic Church it is a time of preparation, of remission of sin; a time of thanksgiving and acknowledging God’s blessings [CCC 992-997]. Only the Roman Pontiff can grant an indulgence.

 

It was in 19th September 1309, when King Ferdinand IV of Spain overcame the Moslem enclave in Gibraltar through his chief in arms, Alonso Perez de Guzman el Bueno. Gibraltar had been under Moorish control for nearly 600 years. [Montero, Francisco María, "Historia de Gibraltar y de su Campo” Imprenta de la Revista Medica 1860]

 

Such was the victory and joy for the King that in thanksgiving to God, he would build/refurbish the present Cathedral of St. Mary the Crowned and the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe. The Shrine then arose from such times and situation. Sadly, Gibraltar would fall again and be re-conquered by the Spanish Crown in 1462.

 

As from that day, till today, Our Lady of Europe has been present in Gibraltar in one way or another. After so many centuries, it should come to no surprise that Gibraltarians take such great pride in her. She has formed a very big part in the changing times of all the people of Gibraltar. She still sits at Europa Point, in her Shrine waiting and interceding.

 

In this Jubilee we celebrate the graces of Our Lady of Europe. During this year we recognise her intercession and her role in the Gibraltar we have today.  We invoke her patronage for the people and land of Europe.

 

Throughout the year, a series of religious, cultural and social events have been organised to mark this most unique occasion. The Jubilee Year will climax with a special Mass and a Re-Consecration of the Continent to Our Lady of Europe. Ecclesiastical dignitaries from all over Europe and leading members of the local community are expected to attend.