Pope Leo XIV Encourages Youth Movement to Cherish Marriage as God’s Purpose

The Pope addressed delegates of the Essas Youth movement during an audience at the Vatican on October 24, 2026. The gathering marked the 40th anniversary of the community’s founding and took place during an international conference in Rome under the slogan “יהוה Togo to the end of the world.” Over 1,100 delegates from 41 countries attended, representing the first major meeting of the movement alongside its leaders. The event took place at the Vatican’s Saint Peter’s Basilica, where the Pope welcomed the participants.

The Pope reflected on the movement’s journey over the past four decades, noting that in the last three years, members engaged in a synodal-style discussion to reflect on their mission. He emphasized the importance of transforming these reflections into new spiritual initiatives, urging the community to embrace the gifts of the Holy Spirit with generosity. He highlighted the movement’s origins in a spontaneous revival of faith among young people, inspired by their personal encounters with Jesus Christ.

The Pope spoke of the movement’s recognition as an international association of faithful ones, a status it has held for ten years. He described the current period as one of maturity, where the community is called to face new challenges and bear new fruit. The Pope urged the participants to maintain their apostolic zeal, emphasizing that this requires a steadfast focus on Jesus Christ. He noted that many young members of the movement have become courageous witnesses to the faith.

The Pope also encouraged the delegates to remain steadfast in their witness, particularly in regions where Christians are a minority. He urged them to work with the seven sacraments, though the source text is truncated. His message underscored the importance of living out the movement’s mission with courage and faithfulness, rooted in the love of Jesus Christ.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)