The Jubilee of Youth, a pivotal event within the Jubilee Year of Hope, will welcome young people from around the globe in a celebration aimed at fostering peace and unity.
The Jubilee Year of Hope continues its series of events with the much-anticipated Jubilee of Influencers and the Jubilee of Youth, scheduled from July 28 to August 3. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, has highlighted the multicultural and diverse nature of these celebrations, designed to unite young minds from across the world in the Eternal City.
Youth from 146 countries will converge on Rome, with the majority – 78% – arriving from European nations. The remaining 22% consists of young people from various parts of the world, including countries experiencing conflict such as Iraq, South Sudan, and Lebanon. Archbishop Fisichella emphasized that these gatherings are not just moments of celebration but significant steps toward peace worldwide, offering a communal embrace as a gesture of solidarity and hope.
Expected to draw at least half a million participants, the gathering will see 370 churches, 400 school buildings, gyms, and numerous families open their doors to accommodate the influx of young visitors. The city is meticulously prepared, with 20 strategically placed food stations and 3,500 vendors ensuring that everyone is well-fed, including those requiring celiac-friendly options.
The Jubilee will kick off with “Dialogue with the City,” featuring 70 events over three days from Tuesday to Thursday in various Roman squares. Diverse groups, associations, and bishops’ conferences will host these events. Highlights include the Duc in Altum theatre group’s street performances on the life of St. Therese of Lisieux and Caritas Internationalis’ interactive exhibits showcasing their mission work. Mary’s Meals will be on hand to discuss their efforts to combat poverty worldwide. The day will culminate in a welcoming Mass in St. Peter’s Square at 7 p.m.
Friday, August 1, has been designated for the sacrament of confession. The historic Circus Maximus will host around 200 priests in tents, offering the penitent young people a day of spiritual reflection.
On the evening of Saturday, August 2, Tor Vergata, the site of World Youth Day 2000, will host one of the grandest events. Here, Pope Leo XIV will join the multitude for a prayer vigil, during which he will engage with the youth through questions posed by representatives from Mexico, the United States, and Italy.
The Jubilee of Youth will conclude with a Mass led by Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, August 3, bringing the week of faith, fun, and friendships to a resonant close.
According to Vatican News, this series of events marks both a celebration of youth and a step forward in the global quest for peace.