Pope Leo XIV Inspires Youth During Historic Vatican Encounter

Pope Leo XIV addressed a massive international gathering of young Catholics, encouraging them to make courageous, good choices during the Vatican's 2025 Holy Year. Amid festivities in Rome, attendees faced logistical challenges but maintained high spirits, celebrating the spiritual experiences and vibrant communal environment reminiscent of a modern-day World Youth Day.

Pope Leo XIV inspired hundreds of thousands of young Catholics during his first major encounter with them at the Vatican's 2025 Holy Year. He urged the youth to make courageous choices to enhance their lives, highlighting the event's role as a spiritual milestone for attendees hailing from over 150 nations.

Arriving at Rome's Tor Vergata field, Pope Leo addressed the dangers of social media and extolled the virtues of true friendship. He also shared news of the unfortunate deaths of two young pilgrims. Despite this, the atmosphere remained jubilant as the international assembly embraced the profound experience.

While Romans experienced disruptions due to the influx of visitors, many welcomed the enthusiasm brought by the young faithful. Premier Giorgia Meloni praised the gathering as an "extraordinary festival of faith, joy, and hope." The event also drew comparisons to the World Youth Day celebrations initiated by St. John Paul II, reinforcing the enduring significance of faith in contemporary society.

(With inputs from agencies.)