Regional News and National News

  Religious News from France (2026)

• The "Boom" of New Baptisms: A phenomenon that continues to surprise observers is the record increase in adult baptisms (catechumens). In response, a specific provincial council is being organized in 2026 to reflect on how to welcome these new profiles, who often come from non-practicing backgrounds.

• End of the Jubilee of Hope: Pope Leo XIV officially closed the Holy Door on January 6, 2026, marking the end of the Jubilee. The final figures are impressive: more than 33 million pilgrims took part in the event.

His latest jubilee is therefore the Jubilee of Hope, which has just come to a close. Here are the key details to keep your text consistent:

• Event Name: The Jubilee of Hope.

• Official Closing: January 6, 2026, with the closing of the Holy Door.

• Attendance: More than 33 million pilgrims traveled for the occasion.

• Significance: This jubilee marked a major milestone for the Church, notably with the "boom" in adult baptisms that you mentioned earlier.

National Level: Curiosities of 2026

Lent and Ramadan occurring simultaneously: A rare calendrical coincidence marks this year, 2026. Ramadan will begin around February 17th, almost at the same time as Ash Wednesday (February 18th), which signals the start of Christian Lent. This exceptional synchronization is prompting many local communities to organize unique interfaith events centered around the theme of shared fasting.