The first day of the Pope's visit to France concluded with an evening prayer attended by 80 thousand young people. During the event, the Pope answered several questions and watched a presentation on the lives of saints in the country, which included Roman chariots and medieval soldiers on horseback, concluding with a fireworks display.
On this arena filled with enthusiastic youth, the Pope, while answering one of them named François, mentioned feelings common among young people, such as 'anxiety and uncertainty.'
The Pope stated that 'these are very common feelings caused by the instability of future plans, the temporary nature of emotional bonds, and the fragility of relationships.' He added that other factors pressuring the generation include: 'fatigue caused by screens, and concern about climate change or the economic and international situation.'
'Yes, we must pay attention to these feelings,' emphasized the North American Pope, inviting the youth to 'keep their hearts open to the suffering of their peers.' He also noted that 'the experience of fragility, any fragility, becomes a reason for a disciple of Christ to be his witness.'
He assured them that 'whoever follows Jesus on the path of humble and free service is freed from anxiety and gains new enthusiasm by experiencing inner joy and peace.'
In response to a question from Chloé, a 25-year-old girl actively involved in a Catholic youth group from poor areas of Île-de-France, the Pope said: 'the society in which we live seems indifferent to God. However, the Lord is not indifferent to us! This is what matters and gives us hope.'
He regretted that the problem was not only that some people were drifting away from God, but also that others were becoming indifferent to the suffering of their neighbors. Nevertheless, he asserted that 'in the realization of daily life and even in difficulties, faith becomes a living testimony of hope.'
Concluding the prayer, the Pope continued speaking and criticized: 'this lifestyle that pushes us to want everything but remain nobody; to receive many 'likes' but remain alone with ourselves.'
The leader of the Catholic Church called on the youth to avoid 'pride, vanity, violence, and greed'—feelings that 'can overcome people and hide terrible loneliness.' He stressed that 'when we decide not to follow this style, then we begin to move towards justice, piety, faith, love, patience, and humility.'
The youth who filled the stadium since 5:00 PM were also invited to become 'artisans of peace' and follow the path of holiness.
