Belize Congratulates Catholic Diocese on the Opening of the Jubilee Year

The Ministry of Religious Affairs extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Catholic Church Diocese of Belize on the successful commencement of its Jubilee Year, themed Spes Non Confundit – Hope Does Not Disappoint. The opening Mass and ceremony, held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 10 a.m. in Belmopan, marked a significant spiritual milestone with the opening of the first Holy Door.

The Jubilee Year, a period of special significance within the Catholic Church, offers the faithful an opportunity for spiritual renewal and a deepening of faith. The theme, Spes Non Confundit – Hope Does Not Disappoint, underscores the enduring strength of hope and the assurance found in faith.

The opening of the Holy Door, a tradition steeped in symbolism, signifies an invitation to enter a closer relationship with God and to embrace forgiveness and grace. This act reflects the Papal Bull—a formal decree issued by the Holy See—which emphasizes mercy, hope, and reconciliation during this sacred time.

The Ministry acknowledged the profound impact of the Jubilee Year on the Catholic community and beyond, highlighting its role in fostering unity, reflection, and spiritual growth. It commended the Diocese for its unwavering dedication and commitment to leading the faithful through this transformative journey.

In celebrating this momentous occasion, the Ministry joined in prayer and solidarity, embracing the theme of hope that unites all. It encouraged the wider community to actively participate in the events and opportunities for reflection that will be offered throughout the Jubilee Year.

WWF Supports FCD Ranger Training Programs

The National Police Training Academy has certified 12 park rangers as Special Constables. 

The training was supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). According to Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD), the training took place over ten days at Las Cuevas Research Station and covered topics like constitutional rights, criminal liability, powers of arrest, and green laws.

Rangers from Chiquibul National Park and Elijio Panti National Park participated in the program. The Forest Department, Department of the Environment, and the National Biodiversity Office also contributed lectures. At the end of the training in December 2024, the 12 rangers swore an oath during a ceremony at Las Cuevas. FCD anticipates that this training will “better support and protect the rich natural and cultural resources of the Western Maya Mountains.”

Additionally, the WWF also supported a recent leadership training that focused on enhancing the skills of 10 more rangers on “discipline and strong conservation ethics.”

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