Rome: Addressing the global gathering of young economists and entrepreneurs at the Economy of Francesco event, Pope Leo XIV delivered a stirring message emphasizing that the economy must move beyond being a simple “production machine” and instead serve humanity and justice.
Speaking to participants at the Mariapoli Centre just outside Rome, the Pope urged the next generation of economic thinkers to challenge systems that perpetuate inequality and indifference. “Break down the walls of detachment and reshape an economy that prioritizes people over mere output,” he said.
In a message signed at the Vatican on November 26, the Pope highlighted the unique role of young people in shaping the future. “No one is more attuned to the new paths on which humanity’s future depends than the youth,” he wrote. Through initiatives like Economy of Francesco, the Church seeks to nurture economic thought and action capable of “fertilizing even the most barren deserts.” He added, “The Gospel transforms human work, allowing abundant life to flourish in the world.”
Pope Leo XIV reflected on the vision of his predecessor, Pope Francis, noting that the late Pontiff’s legacy serves as a call for young economists to envision sustainable and just economic systems. Quoting Pope Francis, he said: “May a new way of living together and doing economics be born among you one that produces no waste but fosters both material and spiritual well-being.” He encouraged attendees to remain steadfast in their calling, assuring them that courage and faithfulness would yield “wonderful stories to share with future generations.”
The theme of this year’s gathering, Restarting the Economy, was central to Pope Leo’s address. He described restarting as more than a technical adjustment: it is about restoring vitality to people, communities, and the planet. “Restarting means breaking the chains of injustice, healing what has been wounded, and creating spaces where every person can breathe dignity and hope. It may require changing direction and exploring new paths,” he said.
The Pope urged young economists to use their work, research, and businesses to reveal the shortcomings of systems that widen inequality and neglect the vulnerable. “Together, we can embrace God’s dreams and see how they expand our own, joining in a collective journey where walls and prejudices fall, and peace finds room to grow,” he noted.
Emphasizing that professional efforts should go hand in hand with social action, Pope Leo advised participants to ground their work in enduring values rather than fleeting trends. He encouraged the young leaders to nourish their spirit through the Gospel and other biblical texts, calling them “the landscape where God still speaks and inspires our vision.”
Concluding his message, the Pope said, “You will be exemplary entrepreneurs and economists if you understand the divine economy. This is the secret shared by countless witnesses who have come before us and continue to guide us. Dear young people, go forward let us move forward together!”