Pope Francis has urged Catholics worldwide to pray for young people who feel called to a religious vocation, encouraging them to embrace their journey with faith and trust in God’s plan. The appeal was made in Pope Video for February 2025, released by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network.

Drawing from his own experience, Pope Francis recalled how, at the age of 17, he had different plans for his life—plans that did not include becoming a priest. However, a simple visit to a church changed everything.

“But one day, I went into the church…and God was there, waiting for me!” he said, emphasizing that God continues to call young people today, often in unexpected ways.

Pope warned that the noise of modern life can sometimes drown out God’s call. “Sometimes we don’t hear because we’re too busy with our own things, our own plans, even with our own things in the Church.” Yet, he reassured that the Holy Spirit continues to guide young hearts toward their vocation.

Pope Francis stressed the importance of supporting young people in their vocational discernment. The role of Catholics, he said, is to accompany them on this journey, encouraging them to listen to God’s voice and trust in His plan.

“Let’s trust young people! And, above all, let’s trust God, for He calls everyone!” he concluded.

Pope Video features scenes from the early life of Jorge Mario Bergoglio—now Pope Francis—alongside images of young people today, drawing a parallel between his personal journey and the vocational calling that many continue to experience.

Archbishop José Gómez of Los Angeles, whose archdiocese contributed to the video’s production, emphasized the Church’s responsibility to nurture young people in their faith.

“The Church’s mission is to walk with young people, to help them grow in their faith, and to work to build this world into the Kingdom that God wants for His people,” he said.

Fr. Cristóbal Fones, SJ, International Director of Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, underscored that God’s call always respects human freedom. He highlighted the need for a vocation ministry that values dialogue, accompaniment, and understanding young people’s questions and concerns.

The press release accompanying the video reminds the faithful that one of the conditions for obtaining a plenary indulgence by passing through a Holy Door in Rome is to pray for the Pope’s intentions. This serves as an invitation for Catholics to join in prayer for young people discerning their call to the priesthood or religious life.

As the Church continues to walk with young people on their spiritual journey, Pope Francis’ message is clear: God still calls, and He invites each person to listen and respond with trust and faith.