He made this call during an audience with members of the Pax Romana International Movement of Catholic Students at the Vatican on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024.
Pope Francis said young Catholics can be the driving force behind what he called a “revolution of charity and service.”
The Holy Father encouraged the youth to use their presence and activities, whether in academic settings or their everyday communities, as tools for positive social change. He expressed deep appreciation for their commitment to promoting social justice and integral human development, inspired by their Catholic faith.
Drawing on his reflection in Christus Vivit, the Pope said, “I urged the young in particular to be protagonists of the revolution of charity and service.” He mentioned that their efforts to create a more compassionate and fraternal world were essential to living out the Gospel in action.
Pax Romana, a movement that fosters global citizenship and empowers students to advocate for change, has focused on social justice issues, with notable work in France, Thailand, and Kenya. The Pope praised their leadership training initiatives, highlighting their potential to transform communities.
Pope Francis urged the youth to continue this mission, stating their vital role in promoting peace, harmony, and justice.
