03/08/2026
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE LEO XIV
Youth Festival - Medjugorje
August 1-6, 2026
On the occasion of the Medjugorje Youth Festival, Pope Leo XIV sends his heartfelt greetings to all participants and encourages them to return ad Fontem, that is, to Christ, the Source of new life and true joy. He therefore invites them to rediscover, through prayer, listening to the Word of God, and the sacraments, the beauty of a personal encounter with the Lord, who quenches the thirst of every heart and gives the strength for ever new beginnings.
His Holiness encourages young people to seek sincerely the Truth that sets them free, without allowing themselves to be deceived by the illusions of passing happiness. Thus, in following Jesus, everyone can accept even the most difficult questions and the unrest of the heart as an opportunity for discernment and growth in faith.
The Holy Father further encourages young people to let themselves be guided by the Holy Spirit and to entrust themselves to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, so that they may become radiant witnesses of the Good News, promoters of fraternity, and builders of peace in society.
As he promises his prayerful support, the Supreme Pontiff invokes upon all an abundance of God's grace, imparting from his heart the Apostolic Blessing.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State of His Holiness
