Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV warmly welcomed young pilgrims and their educators from Northern Europe on Saturday, reminding them that the journey of faith never truly ends. Addressing youth from Denmark and educators from across Ireland, England, Wales, and Scotland during their Jubilee Year visit to Rome, the Pope emphasized that every believer is a lifelong pilgrim.
“You are part of a great tradition,” the Pope told them, “walking the same sacred path that generations of pilgrims from your lands have followed to the Eternal City.” He recalled how Saints Peter and Paul once laid down their lives in Rome for the Gospel, making the city a spiritual landmark for all Christians.
Describing pilgrimage as a sacred pause from the noise of daily routines, Pope Leo said it creates space for a deeper encounter with God. “Here in Rome, among the tombs of saints and martyrs, may your hearts be stirred by their witness and your faith renewed by their courage,” he said.
He reminded the group that pilgrimage is not just a physical journey, but also a spiritual one, where the Holy Spirit gently molds hearts to resemble Christ’s.
Turning his attention to the young pilgrims, Pope Leo offered a heartfelt reminder: “Each of you was made with a divine purpose.” He encouraged them to see this pilgrimage as a moment to listen for God’s call, to pray, and to discern how they are meant to serve in the world. “God speaks quietly, deep within the heart take time to listen,” he urged.
To the teachers and leaders accompanying the youth, the Pope offered gratitude and guidance. He highlighted the importance of their vocation, noting that their example shapes how young people understand and live out their faith. “Let Christ be your teacher,” he said, “so that you may pass on not just knowledge, but wisdom formed by love.”
Pope Leo concluded by reminding everyone that while the pilgrimage to Rome is a special chapter, it is not the final destination. “The true pilgrimage continues in the everyday journey of discipleship,” he said. “Though filled with obstacles, that journey is sustained by grace, by the support of fellow believers, and by the living memory of the saints who walked before us.”
With warmth and encouragement, Pope Leo XIV sent the pilgrims forth not just as tourists of faith, but as traveling disciples, called to carry the light of Christ into the world beyond Rome.