Vatican City: A powerful new movement is rising from the heart of Europe as young Christians unveil a spiritual manifesto aimed at reigniting the continent's Christian soul and restoring hope through faith. The initiative, presented at a press conference by the Holy See Press Office, is not merely an event, but a bold declaration of purpose titled the "Manifesto of Young Christians of Europe."
Rooted in pilgrimage and mission, the initiative’s journey begins in Rome in 2025, continues to Santiago de Compostela in 2027, and culminates in Jerusalem in 2033 symbolizing a spiritual trajectory from the center of the Church to the Holy Land. This ambitious effort "Rome ‘25 - Santiago ‘27 - Jerusalem ‘33" is driven by a generation seeking to reconnect with Christ, Europe’s foundational heritage, and a deeper meaning in life.
Echoing the words of Pope Francis in Spes Non Confundit, the movement aims to reignite Europe’s fading spiritual flame by inviting young people to embark on a journey of evangelisation, healing, and renewal. It speaks of reclaiming the beauty, truth, and love of Christ, especially in an age of confusion, suffering, and loss of direction.
The official proclamation of the Manifesto will take place at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere on 1 August 2025, setting the tone for the years ahead as the group prepares to walk across history-laden landscapes toward Santiago and ultimately Jerusalem.
Holy See Press Office Director Matteo Bruni described the Manifesto as a movement rather than a mere event an initiative designed to reach the hearts of Europe’s youth and awaken within them the voice of faith. Bishop Mikel Garciandia of Palencia, Spain, emphasized the urgency and importance of this “genesis,” envisioning a renewed Christian Europe born from the convictions of young hearts.
Fr. Antonio Ammirati, Secretary General of the Council of European Episcopal Conferences, reiterated the Pope’s call: “Do not remain tourists wear the sandals of pilgrims.” He spoke of the fresh hope found in young believers who are not content with complacency.
Monsignor Graziano Borgonovo captured the spirit of the movement, stating, “We walk because following Christ means movement, not stagnation.” Meanwhile, Archbishop Francisco José Prieto Fernández of Santiago de Compostela urged young people to listen attentively to the Lord’s voice, echoing the call of Saint John Paul II.
Speaking on behalf of the initiative’s international committee, Fernando Moscardó Vegas shared that the Manifesto was born from the yearning of today’s youth to find meaning. “Christ is alive, and Europe can rediscover its soul if it listens,” he declared. Citing St. Augustine, he reflected, “You made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.”
Vegas described the Manifesto as not merely a program but a missionary and prophetic revolution a heartfelt plea from a generation that refuses to settle for superficiality. He concluded with a powerful image: the “spiritual sword” of Europe, once dulled by indifference, is now turning heavenward again, inspired by the same unwavering “yes” that Mary gave an invitation to all to rediscover Christ as the missing piece of their lives.
As Europe faces cultural fragmentation and spiritual fatigue, the voices of its youth rise with clarity and conviction, offering a path not backward, but forward toward a renewed Christian awakening grounded in pilgrimage, proclamation, and purpose.