Speaking at the conclusion of the III Archdiocesan Youth Walk, Cardinal Vicente Bokalic, Archbishop of Santiago del Estero and Primate of Argentina, reminded young Catholics that Jesus walks alongside them and awaits them among the most despised in society. The event, held under the theme “One path, one heart,” began at the Madre de Ciudades Stadium and concluded with a celebration of the Eucharist at Manuel Belgrano Square in La Banda. Throughout the pilgrimage, participating youth engaged in moments of prayer, reflection, confession, and community interaction.
In his homily, Cardinal Bokalic emphasized the importance of developing a listening heart modeled after Jesus, urging participants to extend that same attentiveness toward one another across different parishes and communities. Addressing the challenges faced by many young people today—including violence, loneliness, abandonment, and suffering—he reaffirmed their inherent value and worth despite these difficult realities.
Looking ahead to the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Argentina, the cardinal encouraged the youth to actively share the love of Jesus with others, particularly with abandoned children and marginalized individuals who have yet to experience the Gospel message. He concluded by reminding the faithful that it is precisely among those who are excluded and despised that Jesus is waiting to be encountered.