A previously unreleased video of Pope Francis, recorded in January, has been made public, featuring his final message to young people. In the video, Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of listening to others, particularly grandparents, who “teach us so many things.” He encourages young people to allow others to finish speaking before responding, saying, “When someone is speaking to you, wait until they’ve finished so you can truly understand, and then, if you want, respond.”
The message was addressed to participants in the “Listening Workshops” led by Italian Luca Drusian, which invite young people to discuss various topics and experience the value of being heard and listening to others. Pope Francis warned that interrupting others in conversation doesn’t contribute to peace, urging young people to “listen, listen a lot.” This final message reflects his commitment to promoting understanding and empathy.
The video was released by the Italian magazine Oggi on 26 April, one day after Pope Francis’s funeral Mass, and coincides with the Jubilee for Adolescents celebrated in Rome from April 25 to 27. Thousands of young people attended Mass in St. Peter’s Square, reflecting on the Pope’s teachings and legacy.