Hundreds of thousands of young Catholics from around the world gathered in Rome for the Holy Year 2025 celebration, culminating in a vigil and Mass with Pope Leo XIV, marking a significant spiritual event for the next generation of Catholics amid large-scale festivities and logistical arrangements.
The Vatican hosted a large youth festival in Rome, dubbed the 'Catholic Woodstock,' featuring music, prayer, and social media influencers to engage young people, with Pope Leo XIV participating in events aimed at revitalizing interest in the church among youth amid declining attendance and skepticism towards traditional religion.
Pope Leo XIV made an unexpected and enthusiastic appearance at a Catholic youth festival in St. Peter’s Square, thrilling tens of thousands of young pilgrims and emphasizing messages of hope, peace, and human connection during the Holy Year celebrations.