Madrid: Young people took center stage on the first day of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Madrid, as the Holy Father met volunteers serving the homeless and later joined thousands of young people for a prayer vigil focused on hope, faith, and the search for meaning in life.
The Pope’s visit highlighted the important role young people play in both society and the Church. From acts of service at a social outreach center to moments of prayer and reflection in the heart of Madrid, the day carried a clear message reflected in the theme of the papal journey: “Look up.”
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo visited Cedia 24 Horas, a social project run by Caritas Madrid that has been serving vulnerable people since 1977. What began nearly five decades ago as a mobile coffee service for homeless people has grown into a comprehensive support center for those facing poverty, homelessness, and social exclusion.
Today, the center assists thousands of people each year and has become a vital first point of contact for those struggling to find stable housing and support. More than 20 professionals, including social workers and psychologists, work alongside volunteers to provide care and guidance.
Among those volunteers is Clara Wiek, a young woman who described her experience at the center as deeply enriching. She said working with people from different backgrounds allows for a meaningful exchange of cultures and languages.
Clara explained that she is often inspired by the stories of those who come to the center seeking help. Despite difficult circumstances, many continue to pursue their dreams and maintain hope for a better future. She said hearing their stories has taught her valuable lessons about resilience and determination.
Volunteers at Cedia 24 Horas assist in various ways, from serving meals and tending gardens to simply spending time with those receiving support. Clara noted that watching social workers help people rebuild their lives has also had a lasting impact on her own outlook as a young adult.
The focus on youth continued later in the evening at a prayer vigil held in Madrid's Plaza de Lima. Organized by the Madrid Youth Delegation, the event brought together young Catholics from across the city and welcomed all young people, regardless of their religious background.
Marina Pinto, one of the organizers, said the delegation represents the diversity of Madrid, bringing together young people from different neighborhoods, cultures, and experiences. Over the past several months, they worked together to prepare for the Pope’s visit and the evening gathering.
According to Marina, listening to young people remains an essential part of the Church’s mission. She stressed that youth are not only the future of the Church but also an active and important part of its present.
The vigil was designed as a space where young people could reflect on their questions, hopes, and search for truth. Organizers emphasized that everyone was welcome, including those who may know little about the Catholic faith but are curious and seeking answers.
A special moment of the event involved several young people speaking directly with Pope Leo and asking questions about the challenges they face in today's world.
Among them was Fernando, who expressed hope that the Pope's responses would connect with the realities of young people in Madrid and around the globe. He said many young people are searching for truth and looking for something that can give deeper meaning to their lives.
Throughout the day, the message of “Look up” remained at the heart of the Pope’s visit. Organizers said the phrase serves not only as the motto of the journey but also as a reminder for young people facing uncertainty and challenges.
Despite the difficulties of modern life, Marina said there is always reason for hope. Young people, she noted, must continue to lift their eyes beyond present struggles and remember that a brighter future remains possible.
As Pope Leo’s visit to Spain continues, his first day in Madrid leaves a lasting message for the younger generation: keep searching, keep hoping, and never stop looking up.