Ahead of the highly anticipated Jubilee Youth Vigil at Tor Vergata in Rome, Pope Leo XIV warmly welcomed a group of artists on Saturday morning, encouraging them to use their talents to guide young people toward discovering true joy in Jesus Christ.

Pope received the group informally in the ornate Sala Clementina of the Apostolic Palace, describing the encounter as a "family-like" meeting. Acknowledging the significant role the artists will play in animating the Jubilee celebration, he expressed deep appreciation for their service.

“I wanted to have this small, let’s say ‘family-like,’ meeting with you this morning, being aware of the beauty, the art, the music—all your talents—that you offer to the great crowd we have here in Rome these days,” Pope said.

As thousands of young pilgrims from around the world gather in Rome for the Jubilee of Young People, Pope Leo highlighted the artists’ unique ability to channel faith through music, dance, and creativity. He emphasized that their work is not mere performance, but a mission to touch the hearts of the youth and remind them where true happiness lies.

“Accompany these young people who are in great need of finding true joy, true happiness, which we all find in Jesus Christ,” he urged.

Reflecting on the youthful energy and enthusiasm sweeping through the Eternal City, Pope noted that such unity and shared faith are the foundation of the Jubilee experience. “What we carry in our hearts,” he said, “is above all, the desire to find happiness, joy, love, and to experience faith, even through the gifts the Lord has given us.”

The artists are expected to play a pivotal role in the Youth Vigil at Tor Vergata on Saturday evening, helping to create a spiritual and uplifting atmosphere that reflects the Church’s universal call to joy and hope.

Before concluding the meeting, Pope Leo XIV imparted his Apostolic Blessing, expressing his heartfelt gratitude and encouragement. “This truly is a gift for all of us and for the entire Church,” he said.

The Jubilee of Young People is part of the larger Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations, drawing pilgrims from every continent to renew their faith and encounter Christ at the heart of the Church.