Registration has officially opened for the 17th international World Youth Day (WYD), set to take place in Seoul, South Korea. Marking the feast day of Pope St. John Paul II—the founder of the global gathering—Pope Leo XIV released a video message encouraging young people across the globe to sign up and embark on this upcoming spiritual journey.
In his message, Pope Leo emphasized that the event is far more than a opportunity to visit a new city. Instead, he described it as a invitation to set out on a pilgrimage of faith, friendship, and hope. He noted that a true pilgrimage provides sacred time and space for participants to encounter God on a deeper level, both individually and together as a universal Church community.
Highlighting the diversity of the global youth, the Pope shared that meeting in Seoul will showcase a rich tapestry of languages and cultures. He stressed that despite these differences—and precisely because of this God-given diversity—pilgrims will experience an even profounder sense of unity as members of the one Body of Christ. He expressed his hope that participants will forge lifelong friendships, build joyful memories, and deepen their faith.
Reflecting on the event’s theme, “Take courage! I have overcome the world,” Pope Leo invoked the famous words of St. John Paul II: “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ.” He challenged young people to bring their whole selves to Seoul—including their hopes, dreams, wounds, and struggles—assuring them that God is waiting to reawaken their hope and give them the fullness of life. The Pontiff concluded his message by bestowing his blessing and sharing his anticipation for meeting the youth in South Korea.