Sometimes great things happen without warning. Such was the first meeting between Pope Leo XIV and the young pilgrims of the Jubilee of Hope in Rome. After the welcoming Mass, presided over by Bishop Rino Fisichella, in a St. Peter’s Square illuminated by joy, the Pope appeared, in a ride with the popemobile. Without fanfare, without announcement. Only with the strength of his presence. And among those who were there… the young people of the JAR.
On Via della Conciliazione, with the dome of St. Peter’s as a backdrop and the sunset as a witness, we spoke with four young JARs who, still with their hearts overflowing, gave us the gift of their words.
Voices still trembling with emotion
Maríafrom the JAR Mexico, tells us with a smile that never fades:
“It was spectacular. I couldn’t believe it, I was a potted plant away. I felt a divine connection, like God was embracing me through him.”
Guillermo Ramirezalso from Mexico, is at a loss for words:
“It was so much emotion, peace, joy… I don’t know how to explain it. I can only say that it was a moment I will never forget.”
From Panama, Elian remembers it as something unexpected and profound:
“When I heard that the Pope was coming, I felt like my chest was going to explode. I wasn’t expecting it, and it was as if heaven touched earth at that instant.”
Y Liz Hoalso Panamanian, confesses with a trembling voice:
“It was indescribable. We had been told he wouldn’t come… and suddenly he was there. I couldn’t do anything but stand still, watching, my soul open.”
More than a meeting: a call
This moment was much more than seeing the Pope. It was about feeling part of a living, universal Church that walks with its young people. The presence of Pope Leo XIV – in his first direct encounter with the youth of the world – has lit a spark of hope in thousands of hearts. The Augustinian Recollect Youth was there, not only as a spectator, but as a witness of a moment that invites to respond, to walk, to announce.
Pope Leo XIV has already seen his young people. And they have felt that the heart of the Church continues to beat strong, with them and for them.
This Jubilee is much more than a massive gathering: It is the moment when a generation puts a face to the Pope of their youth. A face they will not forget. A memory that will accompany them forever.