ROME (AP) – On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV addressed over a million Catholic youths during a closing Mass that marked the end of a weeklong encounter called the "Jubilee of Youth" in Rome. In his sermon, he emphasized that the young people present are a beacon of hope for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue rather than violence. This message highlighted the importance of peace and unity amid global turmoil.
Reflecting on the suffering of youth in regions ravaged by conflict, particularly Gaza and Ukraine, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with those unable to join their celebration. “We are closer than ever to young people who suffer the most serious evils, which are caused by other human beings,” he stated, urging attendees to remember their peers in war-torn areas. His uplifting words sought to inspire participants to envision a world of fraternity and friendship.
The gathering took place in the sprawling fields southeast of Rome, where about 1 million young people camped out overnight after attending a vigil service led by Pope Leo XIV on Saturday. This Jubilee event forms part of a significant Holy Year expected to attract approximately 32 million visitors to the Vatican for its traditional pilgrimage, which is deeply rooted in Catholic history.
Accompanying the pope at this vital event were 7,000 priests and 450 bishops, creating an atmosphere of spiritual celebration and community. During his Sunday homily, Leo encouraged the youth to take their experiences back to their homes in roughly 150 countries, reminding them to “spread your enthusiasm and the witness of your faith.” He urged them to aspire to greatness and holiness, asserting that doing so would help the light of the Gospel shine in their lives and the lives of those around them.
Pope Leo XIV also marked the occasion by reminding young people to prepare for their next significant encounter, designated as World Youth Day, set to take place from August 3-8, 2027, in Seoul, South Korea. This future gathering is expected to continue the tradition of fostering youth engagement within the Catholic Church.
The week was characterized by vibrant gatherings, where youths sang hymns in the streets, prayed in public plazas, and stood in long lines at the Circus Maximus to receive the sacrament of confession in various languages. Despite some tragic news shared by the pope regarding the deaths of two young pilgrims—one due to cardiac arrest—participants exhibited an unwavering spirit throughout their time together. One pilgrim, Soemil Rios, 20, from Puerto Rico, expressed the joy and significance of being part of such a historic event, despite the challenges posed by the weather.
While the rain overnight presented its own set of difficulties, attendees remained optimistic. Sister Giulia De Luca from Rome noted the challenges of waking up after a night outdoors but looked forward to the concluding moments of the week with the pope. Her sentiments about the intensity and enjoyment of the week reflected the feelings of many in attendance, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual connections made during this special occasion.
The atmosphere at the Jubilee of Youth was a mix of celebration and solemnity, capturing the essence of youth engagement in faith, friendship, and collective aspirations for peace and understanding worldwide.
