Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV is set to visit the Italian town of Assisi on August 6, where he will meet more than 2,000 young people from across Europe and encourage them to dream boldly, deepen their faith, and dedicate their lives to serving others. The visit will mark the conclusion of the four day GO! Franciscan Youth Meeting, a gathering inspired by the life and spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi.
The event, which runs from August 3 to August 6, brings together young people aged between 18 and 33 for workshops, discussions, prayer, and reflection. Organisers say the gathering is designed to help participants rediscover hope and purpose at a time when many young people struggle with uncertainty about the future. According to Friar Luca de Pasquale, one of the organisers, many young people today have stopped dreaming and no longer believe they can shape a meaningful future for themselves. He believes hearing directly from Pope Leo will encourage them to look beyond fear and embrace a life filled with faith and hope.
The Pope will begin his visit with private prayer inside the historic Porziuncola chapel, located within the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels. The small chapel holds special importance for the Franciscan family because it was restored by Saint Francis, became the birthplace of the Franciscan Order, and was also the place where the saint spent his final days.
After his prayer, Pope Leo will meet the young people gathered outside the basilica. Three participants from different parts of Europe will ask him questions on issues affecting young people today. The Pope is expected to respond personally before meeting members of the Franciscan family in private.
Later in the morning, he will celebrate Mass in front of thousands of pilgrims. The liturgy coincides with the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, making the celebration especially meaningful for those attending the gathering. Organisers hope the Pope's homily will inspire participants to carry the spirit of the event back to their own countries and communities.
A special feature of the gathering will be the presentation of a missionary charter after the Pope's departure. Throughout the four day event, participants will have taken part in workshops focusing on peace, forgiveness, vocation, and Christian service. Their reflections and discussions will be brought together into a document encouraging young people to become active witnesses of hope and faith in their local communities across Europe and beyond.
The programme also includes continuous Eucharistic adoration, exhibitions on the life of Saint Francis, and opportunities for young people to share their own experiences and challenges. Organisers have intentionally invited both believers and non believers, hoping that the welcoming spirit of Saint Francis will encourage everyone, regardless of their background, to reflect on the deeper meaning of life.
Friar Luca said the decision to include non believers reflects the universal appeal of Saint Francis, whose life continues to inspire people far beyond the boundaries of religion. He expressed hope that those attending may find the courage to move beyond prejudice, reconnect with what truly matters, and perhaps discover a personal encounter with God.
Around 2,150 young people registered for the event before registration closed at the end of June. Many more pilgrims are also expected to travel to Assisi specifically to attend the Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV.
Speaking about the lasting popularity of Saint Francis, Friar Luca noted that the saint continues to attract people because of his simplicity, compassion, and willingness to dream beyond ordinary expectations. He cautioned, however, against reducing Saint Francis to only an environmental figure. While the saint deeply respected creation, Friar Luca explained that his famous Canticle of Brother Sun was first and foremost a song of praise to God, inspired by seeing God's presence reflected in creation rather than focusing on nature alone.
Organisers hope Pope Leo's visit will leave young people with renewed confidence to pursue their dreams, strengthen their faith, and become instruments of peace, service, and hope in a world that often leaves many feeling discouraged and uncertain.