Pope Leo XIV urges youth to embrace love as strength

The Vatican released a new message from Pope Leo XIV on Nov. 3, addressing young Christians as they prepare for upcoming religious observances.

The document was signed on Oct. 22, the memorial of St. John Paul II, who established World Youth Day in 1985. The local celebrations for World Youth Day are scheduled for Nov. 22, the solemnity of Christ the King.

Pope Leo wrote that many view love as a form of weakness, but Christ presents it as a source of freedom and strength. He stated that in a world marked by injustice, conflict, fear, violence, and loneliness, everything is transformed by love.

The pope defined Christian courage as a gentle force. It involves showing love when harshness seems easier, seeking peace when confrontation appears more advantageous, and holding fast to hope when cynicism seems more convincing.

He noted that the 2026 local theme, “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33), reflects words Jesus spoke to his disciples before leaving them. The pope observed that this invitation remains relevant for young people facing uncertainty and fear similar to that of the first disciples.

Pope Leo addressed common anxieties among young people, including pressure to succeed, the stress of comparing themselves to others, and the difficulty of recognizing their true selves under the influence of curated social media images. He wrote that technology can imitate empathy but cannot replace authentic human closeness.

The message concludes with an instruction to see the world through Christ's eyes and touch it with his love. The pope urged young people not to wait until they are perfect to open themselves to God, stating that he comes to meet them just as they are. The upcoming November events serve as preparations for the 41st international celebration of World Youth Day in Seoul, South Korea, from Aug. 3 to Aug. 8, 2027.