Pope Leo praised the “enthusiasm, energy, and dedication” of the young people present at the service in Paris

The Pope told the faithful during Saturday’s Mass that they should not keep their faith only to themselves, but share it through their encounters with others. The Pontiff said that it must “overflow,” so that the people they meet can be refreshed.

In his speech, the Pope addressed young people in particular, describing them as “the Church of today.” He praised their enthusiasm, energy, involvement, and the joy they bring to Christian communities.

The message was delivered as part of the Pope’s visit to France. The day before, approximately 80,000 young people accompanied him at the Stade de France, in northern Paris, after the Pontiff had been welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron.

Macron did not attend Saturday’s event and is not expected at the Pope’s services, in order to respect the principle of separation of Church and state. Nevertheless, the president was represented by his wife, Brigitte Macron, and by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. Several politicians who have entered the presidential race also attended the event.

On the same day, the Pope met with migrants and volunteers at the Maison Bakhita center, an organization that supports refugees. He praised the initiative for helping people “see the invisible” and emphasized the role of women in building a “civilization of love.”