Pope Leo XIV captivated nearly a million young Catholics from 150 countries at the Vatican’s 2025 Holy Year Jubilee of Youth, urging them to embrace bold choices for good during a vibrant vigil at Tor Vergata field. Arriving by helicopter, the first American pope connected with the crowd in Spanish, Italian, and English, emphasizing true friendship as a path to peace and warning against social media’s pitfalls.

The week-long celebration saw young pilgrims flood Rome’s cobblestone streets, singing hymns, praying, and attending Christian rock concerts. Despite logistical challenges, including strained public transport and long waits, participants like Francisco Michel from Mexico described the event as a rare spiritual journey. The festival, reminiscent of the 2000 World Youth Day, featured colorful campsites, confession sessions in multiple languages, and vibrant displays of faith.

Tragically, Leo announced the deaths of two pilgrims, one from cardiac arrest, with another hospitalized. While some Romans faced commuting disruptions, many, like local hairdresser Rina Verdone, embraced the “positive invasion” of youthful enthusiasm. The Pope will conclude the event with a Sunday morning Mass, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to its next generation.

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