As the Jubilee of Young People drew to a moving close at Rome’s Tor Vergata field, Pope Leo delivered a heartfelt message to over one million young pilgrims, turning his attention to those who could not attend—young people suffering the devastating consequences of war. In a powerful address just before leading the Angelus prayer, the Pope offered words of solidarity to youth in Gaza, Ukraine, and across all lands ravaged by conflict.
“In communion with Christ, our peace and hope for the world,” the Pope declared, “we are closer than ever to young people who suffer the most serious evils caused by other human beings. We are with the young people of Gaza. We are with the young people of Ukraine. We are with those from every land bloodied by war.” His message was a reminder that the Church stands beside the suffering, and he called on the next generation to be a sign of a more peaceful world—one built not through violence, but through dialogue, fraternity, and friendship.
In an emotional moment, Pope Leo also expressed condolences for the loss of two young pilgrims, Maria from Spain and Pascale from Egypt, who died unexpectedly during the pilgrimage in Rome. He offered his prayers and sympathy to their families, acknowledging the profound grief felt by those who had come together in joy and faith.
The Pope invited everyone to join in thanksgiving to God for the grace of the Jubilee. Reflecting on the enthusiasm and spiritual devotion shown by the youth, he expressed deep gratitude to the bishops, priests, religious, and pastoral leaders who accompanied the pilgrims, and to all who supported the event with their prayers and presence—spiritually or in person.
Looking ahead, Pope Leo turned toward the future with hope. The next great gathering, World Youth Day 2027, will take place in Seoul, South Korea, from August 3 to 8. With the theme taken from John’s Gospel—“Take courage! I have overcome the world”—the Pope called on young people everywhere to be bold witnesses of Christ’s victory over evil and death. He encouraged them to keep dreaming, to continue hoping, and to walk together toward their next encounter, all under the loving protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
