Over a million young people gather in Tor Vergata as Pope Leo delivers a powerful appeal for global solidarity and peace

Rome, August, 2025 — A vast sea of young faces, united in hope and purpose, filled the expanse of Tor Vergata on Sunday as over one million youths from around the world gathered for the World Jubilee of Youth. Under the blistering Roman sun, they listened in rapt silence as Pope Leo delivered a message that cut through the heat and the noise of global conflict: “We stand with the young people of Gaza and Ukraine, and with those of every land stained by war.”

It was a defining moment of the Jubilee, a resonant appeal for peace and solidarity from a pope increasingly recognized for his unflinching engagement with the world’s deepest wounds. The gathering, which marked one of the largest religious events of the decade, was not just a celebration of faith, but a poignant reminder of the global crises shaping the lives of today’s youth.

“We cannot remain indifferent,” Pope Leo said from the altar, set against a backdrop of waving flags and weeping pilgrims. “Your generation, full of creativity and courage, must not allow the voice of peace to be drowned by the clamor of weapons.”

His words were met with waves of applause and tears from participants who had traveled from conflict zones, refugee camps, and nations grappling with the trauma of violence. Among the crowd were delegations from Gaza and Ukraine—some arriving through humanitarian corridors, others sharing testimonies in earlier gatherings during the week-long Jubilee events.

The pope’s message transcended the religious sphere, echoing calls from global youth movements demanding ceasefires, humanitarian access, and long-term commitments to peacebuilding. “This is not only a prayer,” he declared, “but a call to action.”

Organizers of the Jubilee emphasized the unprecedented logistical efforts required to host such a massive and diverse crowd, and highlighted the interreligious and intercultural dialogue that shaped the lead-up to the Mass. Pope Leo, who has made synodality and inclusivity hallmarks of his papacy, met privately with youth representatives the night before the Mass to hear firsthand stories of war, displacement, and resilience.

“For the first time, I feel heard,” said Lina, 17, a participant from Kharkiv, Ukraine. “I’ve lost friends, my home was destroyed, but here, I met others who also believe peace is possible.”

The emotional high point came during the concluding blessing, when Pope Leo invited all in attendance to take a moment of silence. A stillness swept over the vast field—only the fluttering of flags and a distant cry of “Pace! Peace!” broke the hush.

As night fell and pilgrims began their journey back, the message lingered: a global community of youth, united by suffering and hope, empowered to become agents of peace in a fractured world.

“In you,” Pope Leo told them, “the world sees not only its future, but its chance for healing.”