«Dear young people,» Francis asks, «what are your passions and dreams? Give them free rein and, through them, offer the world, the Church and other young people something beautiful, whether in the realm of the spirit, the arts or society.»
Reminding them that Jesus is concerned for each and every person, Francis recalled that once a young person said: “If Jesus was someone who was only concerned about himself, the son of the widow would not have been raised.”
The Holy Father encouraged them to be challenged to start new beginnings with God.
Francis recognized many of the challenges young people face today around the world, including feeling lack of purpose and depression, but reminded them that Jesus is with them and supporting them.
He also encouraged them to remember his words’ addressed to them in his post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Christus Vivit, and encouraged them to look forward to the upcoming World Youth Day 2022 in Lisbon, Portugal.
Mary, Francis said, «wants to welcome with tender love each young person, without exception.»
«So let us implore Mary’s intercession for the Church, that she may always be a mother for her dead children, weeping for them and asking that they be restored to life. In every one of her children who dies, the Church also dies, and in every one of her children who arises, the Church also arises.»
Pope Francis concluded, blessing their journey and asking them to pray for him.
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Full Text: https://zenit.org/articles/popes-message-for-xxxv-world-youth-day-2020-palm-sunday-april-5/
