Pope Leo XIV has addressed his first message to young people in preparation for the upcoming World Youth Day, to be celebrated on November 23, the Solemnity of Christ the King, under the theme: “You also are to testify, because you have been with me” (Jn 15:27).
From the very beginning, the Pope expresses his gratitude for the joy and faith shown by the youth who took part in the Jubilee in Rome. He invites them not to let that encounter remain an isolated event, but to make it a renewed impulse to live and bear witness to their faith.
Friendship with Jesus: The Source of Witness
The Holy Father reminds us that Christian witness springs from a living friendship with Jesus, not from ideology or mere activism. Jesus calls us His “friends,” knowing the desires and wounds of each young person’s heart, and invites us to be renewed by His love. From this friendship flows the joy of being beloved disciples and authentic witnesses.
Inspired by the apostle John and John the Baptist, the Pope emphasizes that true witnesses do not put themselves at the center; they point to Christ. To bear witness means to recognize Him in the poor, the excluded, and in everyday life — to go out of ourselves and encounter others.
Witnesses and Missionaries of Hope
Pope Leo XIV encourages young people to become missionaries of Christ in a world wounded by violence, poverty, and lack of meaning. He invites them to walk alongside other young people who suffer or search for purpose, reminding them that God, in Jesus, is close, compassionate, and tender.
Even when testimony leads to misunderstanding or persecution, the Pope exhorts youth to overcome evil with good, following the example of the saints and martyrs. “Do not lose heart,” he says, “but persevere with hope in the face of difficulties.”
Fraternity and Commitment to Peace
From friendship with Christ also flows fraternity — a new way of seeing others as brothers and sisters. The Pope calls on young people to be artisans of peace, overcoming indifference and mistrust, and engaging actively in building a more just and reconciled society.
“Do not follow those who use faith to divide,” the Pope warns, “but unite to eliminate inequality and reconcile polarized communities.” Peace, he adds, becomes visible in the world through the common witness of those who carry the Spirit of Christ in their hearts.
With Mary, Mother and Companion on the Journey
Finally, Pope Leo XIV invites all young people to welcome the Virgin Mary as Mother, just as the beloved disciple did at the foot of the cross. He encourages them to nurture this filial relationship through the prayer of the Rosary, discovering that they are never alone, but always loved, forgiven, and strengthened by God.
“From all this,” concludes Pope Leo XIV, “bear witness with joy!”
https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/messages/youth/documents/20251007-messaggio-xl-gmg.html
