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Pope tells 80,000 young people: follow Christ without fear
Pope Leo XIV addresses a packed stadium in France, answering questions about faith, commitment and finding hope amid uncertainty.
In brief
Pope Leo XIV addresses a packed stadium in France, answering questions about faith, commitment and finding hope amid uncertainty. The Pope encouraged young people to commit to service and virtue, avoid pride and greed, and trust that the Spirit's light brings comfort even amid life's difficulties. Originally reported…
80,000 gather at France's largest stadium
Pope Leo XIV's first day in France concludes with a prayer vigil at the Stade de France, drawing young people from across the country in their full diversity.
Celebration of French saints and faith
The evening featured testimonies, songs and artistic performances, including tableaux of French saints like Thérèse of Lisieux and Vincent de Paul, ending with fireworks and chants of 'Leo, Leo'.
Sharing faith across religions
A pharmacology student asked the Pope how to share her faith with people of other religions while working in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.
The Pope's answer on faith and humanity
Leo XIV said we're all part of a spiritual dynamic, but warned that many people are strangers to both God and humanity, despising the poor and valuing others only by what they produce.
“We are all part of this spiritual dynamic.”
Commitment transforms fear into hope
A rural agronomy student and scout leader asked how to discern his life's direction. The Pope said commitment to peace transforms fears into hope and complaints into responsible engagement.
Listen to anxiety and uncertainty
The Pope acknowledged that young people face screen fatigue, climate concerns and economic worries, but urged them to listen carefully to these feelings and keep their hearts open to others' suffering.
A call to priesthood and consecrated life
The Pope addressed those hearing a call to priesthood or consecrated life, telling them the Church in France needs them and urging them not to be afraid.
“The Church in France needs you so much. Do not be afraid of this call!”
Three paths: avoid, reach, fight
The Pope built his appeal around three injunctions: avoid pride and greed, reach towards justice and virtue, and fight the struggle of faith through self-giving love, not violence.
The Spirit's light enlightens and comforts
Facing forces that oppose our relationship with God and powers that divide people, the Pope said the light of the Holy Spirit enlightens and comforts us in our struggle.
“The light of the Spirit enlightens and comforts.”
What it means
The Pope encouraged young people to commit to service and virtue, avoid pride and greed, and trust that the Spirit's light brings comfort even amid life's difficulties.
