Pope Leo XIV addressed a vibrant gathering of young pilgrims in St. Peter's Square, inviting them to become "signs of hope" during the upcoming 2025 Jubilee of Youth set to take place from July 28 to August 3 in Rome. Speaking at the welcoming Mass on Tuesday evening, the Pope emphasized the role of youth as "the salt and light of the earth" and encouraged them to be a source of God's grace and a beacon of hope not only in Rome but across the globe.

"In the coming days, you will be empowered to deliver a message of hope and light, calling for peace throughout the world," Pope Leo XIV said, urging young attendees to walk together in faith and raise their voices in unison for peace.

The week-long gathering promises a rich program filled with music, prayer, and cultural exchanges, underscoring a shared commitment to faith and fraternity among young people from around the world.

Among the thousands of participants are Filipino-American pilgrims Jof and Erminda Macaspac and their daughter Erin, who traveled from Los Angeles to join the event for the first time. "We're thrilled to meet the new Pope and visit the Holy Doors," they expressed, their enthusiasm reflecting the excitement of the international youth celebration.

Highlighting the event's significance, the massive 200-acre esplanade at Tor Vergata, located on the southern perimeter of Rome, will host the Vigil and Holy Mass with Pope Leo XIV on August 2 and 3. This site previously served as the central venue for the 2000 World Youth Day led by St. John Paul II and is set once again to become the heart of the global youth Church.

Tens of thousands of young pilgrims are expected to camp overnight in tents, fostering a spirit of community ahead of the culminating events with the Holy Father.