Rome: Pope Leo XIV urged young pilgrims to embody hope as they gathered in Rome for the 2025 Jubilee of Youth, scheduled from July 28 to August 3. “Jesus tells us, ‘You are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the earth!’ I hope that all of you will always be signs of hope in the world,” Pope Leo stated to the assembly of young people during the welcoming Mass at St. Peter’s Square on Tuesday night.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Pope emphasized the significance of the pilgrims’ presence. “In the coming days, you will have the opportunity to be a force that can give God’s grace, a message of hope, a light to the city of Rome, and to the whole world. Let us walk together with our faith in Jesus Christ. And our cry must also be for peace in the world. Let us all say: We want peace in the world!” he proclaimed.

Throughout the week-long event, activities including music, prayer, and cultural exchanges will take place across Rome, uniting youth voices from various backgrounds under one shared message of faith and fraternity.

Among the attendees are Filipino-Americans Jof and Erminda Macaspac, who traveled from Los Angeles with their daughter Erin to partake in their first Jubilee. “We’re thrilled to meet the new Pope and visit the Holy Doors,” the family expressed, capturing the enthusiasm prevailing among the global congregation.

On August 2 to 3, the event will culminate at Tor Vergata, a 200-acre esplanade on Rome’s southern edge known for hosting World Youth Day in 2000 under St. John Paul II. The site will once again become the focal point for the young Church as tens of thousands of pilgrims prepare to camp overnight in anticipation of the Vigil and Holy Mass with Pope Leo XIV.