Marking the Solemnity of Christ the King and the close of the liturgical year, Pope Francis presided over Mass in St Peter’s Basilica yesterday, urging young Catholics to reject superficial acclaim and embrace authentic Christian witness. Source: CNA.
The gathering included the annual World Youth Day observance and featured a handover of the pilgrim symbols – the WYD Cross, first entrusted to youth by St. John Paul II in 1984, and the icon of Mary, known as Salus Populi Romani (Protection of the Roman People) – from Portuguese youth to their Korean counterparts, who will host WYD in Seoul in 2027.
As the Church’s liturgical year drew to a close, the Pope reflected on how Christian joy and love persist even amid global challenges.
“Only in love can we live, grow and flourish in our full dignity,” Francis said, emphasising that genuine love cannot be bought or sold, but “is free”.
The pontiff highlighted what he called “little lights” that give strength to Christian witness: “These little lights: the faithful affection of spouses, a beautiful thing; the innocent joy of children, this is a beautiful joy! – the enthusiasm of young people, be enthusiastic, all of you; and care for the elderly”
“Dear young people, be careful not to get carried away by illusions. Please be concrete because reality is concrete,” the Pope said in his homily.
“What remains, as Christ teaches us, is different: it is the works of love. This is what remains and what makes life beautiful!”
Addressing the pervasive pressure of social media and societal acclaim, Francis warned: “Do not be ‘stars for a day’ on social media or in any other context! You are called to shine in a wider sky.”
Against a backdrop of global challenges and conflict , Francis emphasised the vital role of young people in bearing witness to Christ’s message of peace and hope.
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Pope Francis urges young Catholics to build a world rooted in Christ’s kingship (By AC Wimmer, CNA)
