Pope Francis rode through a crowd of some 80,000 young people gathered in St. Peter's Square on Easter Monday for a prayer vigil with the Pope.
It was the first large event held in St. Peter's Square other than a Mass since the start of the pandemic.
The Pope listened to young people share their struggles with the faith, such as Alice, who described the experience of losing her grandmother.
ALICE
When she was gone, I was angry. I didn't talk to anyone, I didn't open myself to anyone even after multiple efforts by my family and by [my parish priest] Fr. Matteo.
He then offered them advice, and said that fear, when shared with others, loses its power.
POPE FRANCIS
Fears should be expressed so that they can be chased away. Remember this: Fears should be shared. With who? With fathers, mothers, friends, someone who can help you.
Pope Francis also encouraged them not to lose their senses that guide them towards God, which he says is particular to young people.
POPE FRANCIS
You have the nose: don't lose it! The instinct to know “this is true,” or “this isn't true, this isn't okay.” The nose for the Lord, the nose for the truth.
He then blessed candles and a bouquet of flowers that were offered to an icon of the Virgin Mary, the Salus Populi Romani.
The Pope then offered them a blessing, and urged them to go forth with joy in Easter season.
JM
