Dear young people,

With joy I greet you as you gather before the splendid Cathedral of Košice, which is a beating heart of faith and hope.  Coming from different nations yet united by the same faith, your presence is a tangible sign of the fraternity and peace that is instilled in our hearts by friendship with Christ.

Jesus calls you to be witnesses of communion, builders of bridges and sowers of trust in a world often marked by division and suspicion.  Do not be afraid, then, to show that you are Christians, to live the Gospel with enthusiasm, and to share the joy that springs from encountering the Lord.

Always remember the following words, and be courageous in bringing their meaning to others: “In every situation of our life, we will experience that we are never alone, for as children we are always loved, forgiven and encouraged by God.” (Message of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for the 40th World Youth Day).

Indeed, it is this certainty that makes you free, lifts you above indifference, and spurs you on to love with an open and generous heart.  Be witnesses of this joy!  Bring the light of Christ into your families, schools, universities, workplaces and communities.  In this way, the youthful face of the Church will continue to shine in the heart of Central Europe, where the faith of your forebears remains even today a source of new life.

With affection, I impart to you my Apostolic Blessing, and entrust each of you to the protection of the Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church and Queen of Peace. And may the blessing of Almighty God, the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come upon you and remain with you always. Amen