A Journey of Faith and Hope: The Jubilee of Youth 2025
“Dear young people, Jesus is our hope. It is He, as Saint John Paul II once said, ‘who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives [...] to commit to improving yourselves and society, making the world more human and more fraternal.’ Let us remain united with Him, rooted in His friendship, and cultivate this relationship through prayer, adoration, Eucharistic Communion, frequent Confession, and generous charity. Follow the example of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed Carlo Acutis, who will soon be declared saints. Aspire to greatness—to holiness—wherever you are. Do not settle for less. You will see the light of the Gospel growing every day, in you and around you.”

These were the moving words of Pope Leo during the Final Mass at Tor Vergata, the closing celebration of the Jubilee of Youth in Rome (July 28 – August 3, 2025).
The Diocese of Nelson joyfully sent 48 delegates, youth, parents as chaperones, and spiritual leaders Fr. Obi and Fr. Ferdinand, to this extraordinary pilgrimage, organized by the Nelson Diocese Charismatic Renewal Ministry together with the Diocese of Nelson Youth Ministry.
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A Living Faith in the Heart of the Church
The pilgrimage was an unforgettable encounter with the living faith of the Catholic Church. The delegates were uplifted by witnessing millions of young people from every corner of the world gathered together in the very heart of the Church, joyfully proclaiming the name of Jesus. Truly, the youth are the hope of the Church!
Before the Jubilee of Youth, the group embarked on a spiritual journey across Italy, visiting holy sites, shrines of saints, and the Four Holy Doors to celebrate the Jubilee Year.
They prayed at the four Papal Basilicas: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. These Holy Doors, opened only during Jubilee Years, are profound symbols of God’s mercy and renewal. Passing through them is not only a sacred tradition but also a reminder of God’s infinite forgiveness and the call to begin anew.
The group was also blessed to visit the Vatican Museums, the Vatican Gardens, and the shrines of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Clare, St. Rita, Blessed Carlo Acutis, St. Thomas, and the site of St. Paul’s martyrdom at Tre Fontane. Each visit touched hearts deeply, showing how the saints lived their lives fully for Christ. Their examples inspired the young pilgrims to follow in their footsteps with courage and joy.
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The Jubilee of Youth: A Celebration of Hope
The highlight of the pilgrimage was, without question, the Jubilee of Youth. The days were filled with concerts, talks, testimonies, and powerful moments of prayer. The faith of young people was alive expressed through music, words, and witness.
One unforgettable moment was the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the Circus Maximus, where countless young people patiently lined up under the sun to receive God’s mercy. The sight of priests journeying with them in confession was a moving testimony of the depth of God’s love and forgiveness.
The pilgrimage walk to Tor Vergata was another life-changing experience. Though the journey was long and hot, the joy and faith of the young pilgrims never wavered. During the evening prayer vigil, Pope Leo listened to the heartfelt questions of the youth and then led them in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Despite the presence of millions, a profound silence filled the field, a silence of reverence, unity, and love for Christ.
That night, the pilgrims camped under the stars, their hearts overflowing with faith.
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The Final Mass: A New Beginning
The closing Mass was a moment of great joy and reverence. The youth welcomed Pope Leo with resounding shouts, yet when the Eucharist was celebrated, a deep spirit of worship embraced the crowd. They listened attentively to the Word of God and received the Body of Christ with renewed faith and hope.
As the celebration ended, the young people did not leave empty-handed. They returned home carrying treasures of faith, joy, and purpose to share with their families, parishes, and communities.
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Takeaways from the Diocese of Nelson Delegates
The pilgrimage left lasting lessons for our young people:
1.    Let your light shine. You are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
2.    Build authentic friendships rooted in Christ. True solidarity is stronger than any virtual connection.
3.    Serve with justice and love. Like Jesus, seek out the poor, the marginalized, and those most in need.
4.    Carry hope back home. As Pope Leo reminded us, spread enthusiasm and faith throughout your communities and countries.
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Walking Forward in Joy
We walked together in faith.
We sang under the sun.
We prayed under the stars.
We celebrated the Eucharist with the Universal Church.
We return not tired, but transformed—ready to be missionary disciples of Christ.
We have seen the love, heard the message, and lived the joy. Now, we step boldly into the next chapter.
The world awaits our witness.
To be the light.
To show how fellowship, prayer, and courage can transform lives.
To go in peace, united with Christ.
With renewed purpose and joy, our journey of faith continues.