- Pope Leo addressed over a million youth at the Jubilee of Youth near Rome, urging them to be agents of peace.
- He highlighted global suffering, mentioning youth in war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine.
- The event marked the largest gathering of his early papacy, part of a Holy Year pilgrimage.
Pope Leo delivered a stirring call to action at the close of the Jubilee of Youth, a week-long gathering that drew over one million young Catholics from around the globe.
The pontiff also offered a solemn reflection on those unable to attend due to conflict, naming youth in Gaza and Ukraine as symbols of resilience and sorrow.
Pope Leo Rallies Global Youth: “Be the Light in a Troubled World”
The Jubilee of Youth featured not only religious ceremonies but also moments of fellowship, music, and intercultural dialogue. Participants shared stories of faith, activism, and service, highlighting the global Church’s diversity and the common values that unite them. Pope Leo praised their “enthusiasm and witness,” urging them to keep their spiritual momentum alive after returning home.
Logistically, the event was a massive undertaking. Held in sprawling fields southeast of Rome, it required extensive coordination for accommodations, food, and safety. The Vatican deployed hundreds of volunteers to ensure a smooth experience for attendees, many of whom had traveled thousands of miles. The pope arrived and departed by helicopter due to the scale of the event and the region’s limited accessibility.
This Jubilee marks a significant chapter in Pope Leo’s brief but impactful papacy. Known for his emphasis on dialogue, environmental care, and youth engagement, he is rapidly becoming a figure of hope among the younger generation. His speech avoided political rhetoric, focusing instead on moral clarity, compassion, and the need for spiritual courage in an age of crisis.
Beyond its religious significance, the gathering underscored the Catholic Church’s ongoing effort to engage with younger audiences. In a digital age where faith faces growing skepticism, Pope Leo’s personal, heartfelt message aimed to revive connection and inspire active faith through service, social justice, and peacemaking.
Pope Leo’s address at the Jubilee of Youth was more than a spiritual moment—it was a rallying cry for a generation ready to lead with empathy, vision, and unwavering faith.
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
