Rome: The Pope Leo Catholic youth gathering has brought together a vast crowd at Tor Vergata on the outskirts of Rome, where the pontiff has urged young people to seek justice, serve the poor, and help build a more humane world.
The event forms part of the Catholic Holy Year celebrations and marks the most attended event so far under the current papacy. Pope Leo has drawn young participants from over 146 countries who gathered under the summer sun, many wearing colourful bandanas to shield themselves from the heat, which reached nearly 30 degrees.
Celsius. Water cannons were used by organisers to help cool the crowd throughout the day. As the white popemobile moved through the field, the smiling pope offered blessings while youth waved national flags and tossed soft toys and keepsakes in the air. Many had waited since early morning, some arriving as early to take part in the weekend’s activities.
I would like to invite each of you, dear young people, to say to the Lord: “Thank you, Jesus, for calling me. My desire is to remain one of your friends, so that, by embracing you, I may also be a companion on the journey for anyone I meet. Grant, O Lord, that those who meet me…
— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) August 2, 2025
In an address to the massive crowd, Pope Leo stated that young people must persevere in faith with joy and courage. The message focused on living with compassion and taking responsibility to create a kinder, more just world. The pope called on attendees to serve those in need and to reflect the goodness that everyone hopes to receive from others.
The gathering is a highlight of the ongoing Catholic Holy Year, which has drawn nearly 17 million pilgrims to Rome since its launch in late 2024. This youth-focused event is intended to inspire global Catholic youth to strengthen their faith and engage actively in their communities.
Many participants are expected to remain overnight in the field to attend a mass scheduled for August 3. Pope Leo Catholic youth gathering continues to energise the global Catholic community, delivering a clear call for young people to lead through service, unity, and justice.
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