Pope Francis is urging young people to “walk in hope” despite the overwhelming violence and war plaguing many countries. His message conveyed through Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, emphasised the importance of hope in overcoming weariness, crises, and anxiety. The Pope’s words were part of the 47th European Youth Meeting, organised by the Taizé Community in Tallinn, Estonia, from December 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025.
Cardinal Parolin highlighted the significance of coming together in a spirit of sharing and fraternity, especially in the face of serious global challenges. He quoted Pope Francis’ message for the 39th World Youth Day, which stressed that hope is a gift from God that fills our lives with meaning, lights our path, and guides us toward our life’s goal. The Cardinal assured the young people that the Holy Father is counting on them to spread God’s love and reaffirmed the Church’s trust in their abilities.
The Pope’s message also coincides with the theme of the Jubilee Year in 2025, which encourages people to “hope beyond all hope.” By embracing hope, young people can become beacons of light in a world filled with darkness and despair. As Cardinal Parolin concluded, Pope Francis wholeheartedly grants his apostolic blessing to the young people and entrusts himself to their prayers, with the intercession of the Virgin Mary.