Melbourne : Pope Leo XIV surprised thousands of young Catholics attending the Australian Catholic Youth Festival in Melbourne by sending a personal video message, encouraging them to live with courage, purpose and strong faith.
The message was played during the opening day of the festival, which brought together more than 6000 young people from across Australia. Many of them had walked a five kilometre pilgrimage from St Patricks Cathedral to the Melbourne Convention Centre, where the World Youth Day Cross and Icon were also welcomed back to the country.
In his message, Pope told the young pilgrims that they are loved and valued by God and not the result of chance. He reminded them that faith is a foundation that gives meaning, especially in a time when many young people struggle with loneliness or digital distraction.
He encouraged them to build real friendships, return to prayer and take part in the sacraments. He also asked them to look to saints like St Catherine of Siena, St Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as examples of young people who lived their faith with joy and conviction.
The festival is taking place during the global Jubilee Year 2025, which the Church is marking as a year of hope and spiritual renewal. Over the past months, Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly spoken about the importance of guiding young people and strengthening their connection to the Church and community.
Organisers say Pope’s unexpected message lifted the energy of the event and inspired many participants to reflect more deeply on their purpose and faith journey. The festival will continue over the coming days with prayer sessions, music, workshops and community events aimed at helping young Catholics grow in faith and leadership.