At a Mass in St Peter’s Square for the first World Children’s Day, Pope Francis highlighted the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding our lives. This Mass concluded an event requested by Pope Francis, which had gathered around 50,000 young people at Rome’s Olympic Stadium the previous day.

Celebrated on Trinity Sunday, Pope’s homily reflected on the significance of the Holy Trinity.

Addressing the children, he emphasized the unity and love within the Trinity, likening it to a family. “We pray to God, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. How many 'gods' are there? One in three persons,” he explained.

Engaging with the children, Pope Francis asked, “when we pray to God the Father, what is the prayer that we all pray?” They answered, “The Our Father.” He encouraged them to always seek guidance from God, the Father who created and loves them deeply.

Turning to Jesus, the Son,  Pope underscored Jesus’ importance in their lives. “We pray to Jesus because He helps us, stays close to us, and even when we receive communion, we receive Jesus and He forgives all our sins,” he said. He then asked, “is it true that Jesus forgives everything?” The children affirmed with a resounding “yes!”

Pope Francis then explained the Holy Spirit’s role, acknowledging it might be challenging to understand. He described the Spirit as the divine presence within us, received through Baptism and the Sacraments. “The Holy Spirit is the one who accompanies us in life,” he told the children, encouraging them to repeat the phrase. He explained that the Holy Spirit guides them to do good and offers comfort and strength in difficult times.

He also spoke about Mary, asking, “What is the name of our Mother in Heaven?” The children responded, “Mary,” and they recited the Hail Mary together.

Concluding his homily, Pope Francis urged the children to pray for their parents, grandparents, ill children, and for peace in the world. “Pray for us,” he concluded, “so that we can go forward, all of us.”