In the context of the meeting with members of the International Movement of Catholic Students Pax Romana, the Pope made a heartfelt appeal to young people to become promoters of social justice and integral human development. During his visit to the Vatican, the Holy Father warmly thanked those present, recognizing the important commitment that the movement carries out in the academic and social world, supported by the inspiration of the Catholic faith and the social doctrine of the Church.
Protagonists of a more fraternal and compassionate world
Following the guidelines of the 2018 Synod on Youth, the Pope recalled the words of the Apostolic Exhortation Christ livesinviting young people to become “protagonists of the revolution of charity and service”. An exhortation that is reflected in the activities carried out by Pax Romana in various countries around the world, including France, Thailand and Kenya, where educational and training centers become bearers of evangelical testimony and promote a strong sense of global citizenship. “Your work”, the Pope emphasized, “contributes to building a more compassionate, harmonious and fraternal world”.
Particular attention was paid to the movement’s ability to prepare young people to address the most pressing social issues of our time, educating them to be agents of change in their communities. “You are the leaven of the Gospel in the world,” said the Pontiff, recognizing the impact of their actions in promoting justice and respect for human dignity.
The Synodal Path and the Holy Year 2025
Another central theme of the papal speech was the Synod on Synodality, currently underway. The Pope encouraged young people to be an active part of this journey, participating in a spirit of listening and discernment: “Walk together with the Church, sharing, listening and discerning under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”
In view of the Holy Year 2025, the Pontiff took the opportunity to invite young people to experience this event as an opportunity for spiritual renewal. “The Holy Door that the faithful pass through in Rome symbolizes our common journey toward a deeper union with Jesus,” said the Pope, recalling how we are all pilgrims seeking God’s grace to transform the world in which we live.
A commitment to peace and justice
The Pope’s message then touched the heart of the mission of Pax Romana: to work for peace, harmony, justice and human rights. “May your presence in Rome be a source of renewed inspiration for your commitment to building the kingdom of God in this world,” said the Holy Father. The invitation to young people was to continue to bear witness to mercy and justice, following the example of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a model of charity and Christian activism, whom the Pope hopes to canonize in the next Holy Year.
The speech concluded with the papal blessing and the entrustment to the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, and of Blessed Frassati. “I bless you from my heart and ask you to pray for me,” said the Pope, leaving those present with a profound sense of gratitude and a renewed impetus towards the mission of service and witness in the world.