Pope Leo XIV challenged thousands of young Catholics gathered in Assisi to reject fear, embrace authentic Christian discipleship, and become a generation that transforms the world through holiness, reconciliation, and love.
Speaking during the 2026 Franciscan Youth Meeting, the Holy Father celebrated Mass at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels before meeting with young people who had traveled from across Europe for the gathering themed “Go!”
Throughout the day, Pope Leo repeatedly encouraged young Catholics to look beyond comfort and self-interest, urging them to follow the example of Saints Francis and Clare by placing Christ at the center of their lives.
Reflecting on the Feast of the Transfiguration, the Pope explained that the Christian life begins by listening to God and responding with courage. According to Vatican News, he said the Church exists “to draw us into this dynamic of listening and deciding, helping us understand for whom to live and how to live.”
He reminded young people that the Church is “the community where we learn to distinguish the voice of God” and where believers are strengthened to follow the Holy Spirit with creativity and courage.
Turning to the example of Assisi’s great saints, Pope Leo described the city as a place where countless lives have been transformed by God’s grace.
“Everything whispers that our lives can be transformed, unleash light, and repair the world,” he said, according to Vatican News.
The Pope encouraged the young pilgrims not to remain on the sidelines of history but to become active witnesses to Christ.
“We are here to overcome resignation and fear,” he said. “Jesus calls us into a dialogue with His story so that we may write new pages of history.”
Pope Leo also challenged participants to seek out those who suffer rather than remaining at a comfortable distance. Quoting Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation Evangelii gaudium, he reminded the gathering that Christian discipleship requires closeness to those in need.
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo repeated Pope Francis’ words: “Jesus wants us to touch human misery, to touch the suffering flesh of others.”
He urged the young faithful to go to society’s margins, where human dignity is often denied, and to become instruments of hope for those who have been forgotten.
The Holy Father also presented Saints Francis and Clare as timeless models of Christian freedom.
Calling St. Clare’s decision to embrace poverty especially remarkable, Pope Leo invited the young people to embrace what he described as the liberating power of the Gospel.
“Today Europe and the whole world are looking to you for new saints,” he said. “Dare to believe in the word of the Gospel, become fully human with the freedom of Jesus Christ, and embrace Sister Poverty!”
Later in the day, Pope Leo answered questions from young pilgrims about faith, war, technology, vocation, and the challenges facing the Church.
Responding to concerns about conflict and division, he warned against allowing religion to become a tool for political or nationalistic agendas.
According to Vatican News, the Pope praised efforts that promote reconciliation among Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and Muslims, adding that Christians are increasingly called “to become peacemakers in societies tempted to exploit religion in conflicts between different identities.”
He also distinguished authentic Christian commitment from extremism.
“Gospel radicalism is the opposite of fundamentalism,” Pope Leo said. “It does not make us blind and violent, but sensitive and attentive, always following Jesus and therefore humble and welcoming towards everyone.”
Addressing the influence of technology, the Pope cautioned that modern life can distance people from authentic human relationships.
“Technology is making us forget how to be together as people of flesh and blood,” he said, encouraging young Catholics to rediscover silence, fraternity, and genuine encounter with others.
The Holy Father also reflected on lifelong vocation, describing permanent commitment as a powerful witness in a culture that often avoids lasting decisions.
“Making a definitive choice is perhaps the most revolutionary act,” he said.
Sharing a personal glimpse into his own vocation, Pope Leo recalled God’s constant faithfulness throughout his life.
“In my experience, I can say that the Lord has never left me alone,” he said. “He has always accompanied me… until I had to say ‘yes’ to a very special calling: that of being Pope.”
Finally, Pope Leo returned to one of the central themes of his pontificate: unity within the Church and among all people.
He acknowledged the Church’s wounds while emphasizing that Christ continues to unite people who otherwise would remain divided.
The Pope concluded by reminding the young faithful that true Christian leadership is measured not by power or prestige but by humble service.
“Not grasping, but receiving; not holding on, but giving back: this is the life of God,” he said. “The power of Jesus does not humiliate, but lifts up.”
Throughout his visit to Assisi, Pope Leo’s message remained clear: the future of the Church depends upon young Catholics willing to live the Gospel boldly, serve those who suffer, build peace where there is division, and become the saints the world needs today.
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