Pope Francis has announced the celebration of an extraordinary Holy Year dedicated to Mercy, starting Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, and concluding Nov. 20, 2016, the Solemnity of Christ the King. The Year of Mercy begins with the opening of the “holy door of mercy” at St. Peter’s Basilica by Pope Francis. Join us on Sunday, Dec. 13 for the opening of Holy Doors at two designated churches in the Archdiocese of Vancouver. At 3 p.m. the opening of the Holy Door at Holy Rosary Cathedral, Vancouver, will take place with Mass and official blessing of the door. Confessions will be heard from 2 to 3pm. Westminster Abbey in Mission will also open its Holy Doors the same day with Mass celebrated at 10am. All are welcome to attend. The Abbey is a designated pilgrimage site during the Year of Mercy. Groups wishing to make a pilgrimage should contact the Abbey in advance to book. Call 604-826-8975. More details to come: rcav.org/year-of-mercy