Pope Leo XIV emphasized the profound significance of Baptism as the gateway to Christian life to young French Catechumens and Neophytes
Newsroom (29/07/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a heartfelt address to young French catechumens and neophytes gathered in Rome for the Jubilee of Youth, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the profound significance of Baptism as the gateway to Christian life. Speaking on Monday morning, the Holy Father celebrated the personal journeys of faith undertaken by these young believers, accompanied by their bishops, chaplains, and catechists.
A Personal Encounter with Christ
The Pope centered his message on the deeply personal nature of Christian initiation. “Each of you makes a personal encounter with the Lord within the community that welcomes you,” he said, describing Baptism as more than a ritual—it is the start of a lifelong communion with the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
“What joy to see young people who are committing themselves to the faith and who want to give meaning to their lives by letting themselves be guided by Christ and His Gospel!” Pope Leo exclaimed. He underscored that Baptism integrates believers into “the great family of God,” endowing them with a sacred dignity.
Quoting Saint Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, the Pope reminded his audience, “All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” This transformative act, he said, calls Christians to reject the “culture of death” and instead embrace the light of the risen Christ—a flame that must be nurtured through the Word of God and the Eucharist.
The Light of Faith
Reflecting on the baptismal rite, Pope Leo highlighted the moment when the newly baptized receive a candle lit from the Paschal candle, symbolizing Christ’s enduring presence. “It is the light of the dead and risen Christ that we commit to keeping lit by nourishing it through listening to the Word of God and regular communion with Jesus in the Eucharist,” he said.
Drawing on the words of Saint Ambrose—“Omnia Christus est nobis!” (“Christ is everything for us!”)—the Pope portrayed Christ as the ultimate source of healing, light, and hope. “If you want to heal a wound, He is the doctor… if you are in darkness, He is the light,” he said, urging the young faithful to “taste and see how good the Lord is.”
A Call to Witness
Addressing the young attendees as “the salt of the earth and the light of the world,” Pope Leo emphasized the Church’s need for their vibrant witness of faith. He encouraged them to remain anchored in Christ, the source of “the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” especially in challenging times.
“We are not born Christian; we become Christian when we are touched by the grace of God,” the Pope said, concluding his address with a call to steadfastness. “May your hearts be established in Him who is the source of all peace, joy, and love.”
Ending on a warm note, Pope Leo thanked the young pilgrims and wished them a “Happy Jubilee,” sending them forth to live out their faith with courage and conviction.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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