ROME — On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV addressed over a million young Catholics at the conclusion of a weeklong gathering, emphasizing a hopeful message that they symbolize the possibility of a different world where dialogue replaces conflict and war.
In his benediction marking the end of the Jubilee of Youth, Leo paid tribute to those from war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine who couldn’t participate in the festivities.
“We stand in solidarity with the youth who suffer gravely due to the deeds of fellow humans,” Leo stated. “Our hearts are with the young people in Gaza, in Ukraine, and in every war-stricken region.”
“Dear young friends, you are the testimony that another world can exist. One built on brotherhood and camaraderie, where disputes are settled through conversation, not arms.”
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
The youth stayed overnight in vast fields southeast of Rome following a Saturday vigil service led by Leo, who was flown from Vatican City by helicopter. This special Jubilee is a segment of the Holy Year, anticipated to attract 32 million pilgrims to the Vatican, symbolizing the ongoing tradition of Catholic pilgrimage.
The Vatican said more than 1 million young people were present, along with 7,000 priests and 450 bishops.
During his Sunday speech, Leo encouraged attendees to “bring your zeal and the example of your beliefs” back to their homes across nearly 150 nations.
“Aspire to great things, to holiness, wherever you are,” Leo urged the young faithful. “Do not settle for less. You will then see the light of the Gospel growing every day, in you and around you.”
Leo reminded the crowd that their next encounter will be during World Youth Day, set for Aug. 3-8, 2027, in Seoul, South Korea.
The week has been a joyous gathering marked by bands of youths singing hymns as they move down cobblestoned streets, praying the Rosary in piazzas and standing for hours at the Circus Maximus to confess their sins to priests offering the sacrament in a dozen languages.
Leo also shared some tragic news on Saturday: two young people who had made the pilgrimage to Rome had died, one reportedly of cardiac arrest, while a third was hospitalized.
Rain overnight awakened the faithful but didn’t dampen their spirits.
“At least we were a little covered, but we still got a bit wet. We lost our voices a little. It was cold, but we woke up to a beautiful sun and view,” said Soemil Rios, 20, from Puerto Rico. “Despite the difficulties, it was very nice and very special to have been part of this historic moment.”
Sister Giulia De Luca, from Rome, acknowledged that “waking up was a bit tough,” but that she was looking forward to seeing the pope again.
“It will be very nice to conclude a very intense week together. Definitely a lot of fun, but also very challenging in many ways,” she said.
Barry reported from Milan
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