MESSAGE OF THE HOLY FATHER POPE LEO XIV - YOUTH FESTIVAL - Medjugorje, August 1 – 6, 2026

On the occasion of the Medjugorje Youth Festival, Pope Leo XIV extends his cordial greeting to all participants and urges them to return, AD FONTEM, that is, to Christ, the source of a new life and the authentic joy. He therefore invites them to rediscover, through prayer, listening to the Word of God, and the sacraments, the beauty of a personal encounter with the Lord, who quenches every heart and gives the strength to always begin anew.

His Holiness encourages young people to sincerely seek the truth that sets them free, without being seduced by the illusions of fleeting happiness. In following Jesus, each person can embrace even the most difficult questions and the restlessness of the heart as an opportunity for discernment and growth in faith.

The Holy Father also urges young people to let themselves be led by the Holy Spirit and to entrust themselves to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, so that they may become shining witnesses of the Gospel, promoters of fraternity, and builders of peace in society.

Assuring them of his remembrance in prayer, the Supreme Pontiff invokes upon all an abundance of divine grace, heartily imparting his apostolic blessing.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State of His Holiness