Young Catholics in Iraq received a message of encouragement from Pope Leo XIV this week as they gathered for their annual Youth Meeting in Ankawa, where the Holy Father called them to live as courageous witnesses of faith despite the hardships facing their country.
According to Vatican News, young people from across Iraq are participating in the annual gathering from July 8–11 in the Archeparchy of Erbil. This year’s meeting is centered on the theme “Mission,” reflecting the Church’s call for young Catholics to actively share the Gospel.
In a video message to the participants, Pope Leo reminded them that the Church depends on their witness today, not simply in the future.
“The Church has a vital mission to serve the world by sharing the light of Christ,” the Pope said. He encouraged the young people to help “shape the Church — and the world — in the years to come.”
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo also reaffirmed a message he has emphasized previously, saying that “young people are not only the future of the Church, but also the present.”
Recognizing the challenges many Iraqi Christians continue to endure after years of conflict and instability, the Holy Father acknowledged that living the Christian faith can be difficult, according to Vatican News.
“It is not always easy to be a light in the world,” he said. “You are called to radiate this light in a situation that has often been marked by war and instability.”
Rather than becoming discouraged, Pope Leo urged the young faithful to remain confident in Christ’s presence.
“Do not be afraid! And do not think that you are alone in this task. I am with you; the Church is with you. Place your trust in Jesus,” he told them.
According to Vatican News, the Pope built his reflection around the image of light, describing faith, love, and hope as the essential qualities that should guide every Christian disciple.
He explained that faith allows believers to recognize reality through God’s truth rather than through fear or uncertainty, encouraging the young people to let their lives become a witness that helps others discover Christ.
Pope Leo also emphasized that authentic missionary discipleship begins with a personal relationship with Jesus nourished through prayer and the sacraments.
“Ground your hearts in the solid foundation of God’s love for you,” he said. “Discover the heart of Christ, and do not be afraid to build your lives upon him.”
According to Vatican News, the Holy Father said that only by remaining rooted in God’s love can Christians share “the warmth of God’s love and the reconciling power of his grace” with others.
Turning to the theme of hope, Pope Leo challenged Iraqi youth to become peacemakers in a region that continues to long for reconciliation.
“You are particularly called to be peacemakers, to unite those around you, and to instil in others the hope of a future marked by lasting peace,” he said.
Concluding his message, the Pope entrusted the young people to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary and encouraged them to trust God’s plan for their lives.
“Never doubt the goodness of God,” Pope Leo said. “Do not be afraid of the plan the Lord has for each of your lives,” recalling the promise found in the Book of Jeremiah that God desires “to give you a future with hope.”
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