Pope Leo XIV calls on young Catholic Action members to reconcile with someone close before Christmas, stressing peace begins in everyday relationships
Newsroom (19/12/2025 Gaudium Press ) In a heartfelt address delivered in the Consistory Hall, Pope Leo XIV encouraged young members of Italian Catholic Action to take concrete steps toward peace this Christmas by reconciling with someone in their immediate circle, underscoring that true harmony begins in ordinary human relationships rather than grand geopolitical gestures.
Speaking to a group of enthusiastic boys and girls from the association, accompanied by their national president, ecclesiastical assistant, educators, and collaborators, the Holy Father expressed his joy at meeting them just days before the celebration of Christ’s birth. He praised their vibrant witness to faith, noting that the very name “Catholic Action” reflects their identity as disciples of Jesus, bearers of the Gospel, and companions within the broader Church.
Central to the Pope’s message was the theme guiding the youth sector of Catholic Action this year: “There is room for everyone.” Drawing inspiration from the traditional nativity scenes prepared during Advent in homes, schools, and parishes, Pope Leo XIV highlighted how the figures surrounding the infant Jesus—Saint Joseph, the Virgin Mary, the shepherds, the donkey, and the ox—embody this inclusive reality. “Around the Lord, who becomes man to save us, there is room for everyone!” he declared, emphasizing that Christ makes space for every individual, regardless of age or circumstance.
The Pontiff contrasted this divine welcome with the historical rejection Jesus faced at his birth—no room in the inn—yet noted how the Son of God persistently “knocks on our hearts” while opening his own to all with boundless love. He urged the young people, when praying before their nativity scenes, to aspire to emulate the angels who proclaimed God’s glory and peace to humanity.
Pope Leo XIV delved deeper into the biblical title of Christ as the “Prince of Peace,” referencing Isaiah 9:6. He clarified that authentic peace transcends the mere absence of war; it constitutes a profound friendship among peoples grounded in justice. While acknowledging the universal longing for peace in nations scarred by conflict, the Holy Father insisted that such harmony must originate in the small, everyday interactions—at home, in parishes, with classmates, and even on sports fields.
In a direct and personal challenge, he invited the youth to reflect before Christmas night: “Think of a person with whom you can make peace: it will be a more precious gift than those you can buy in stores, because peace is a gift that is truly found only in the heart.” He described this act of reconciliation as a quintessential “Catholic Action,” a gesture that renders individuals authentic witnesses to Jesus, the Redeemer of the world.
To inspire their efforts, Pope Leo XIV pointed to two modern saints as models: St Pier Giorgio Frassati, a former member of Catholic Action known for his charitable works, and Saint Carlo Acutis, celebrated for his passionate embrace of the Gospel through digital means and acts of charity. “I encourage you to imitate their passion for the Gospel and their works, always inspired by charity,” he said. By following their example, the Pope assured, the young people’s proclamation of peace would shine brightly, fostering true freedom, happiness, and readiness to assist those in need.
Concluding his greeting, the Holy Father extended Christmas wishes to the youth and their families, imparting a cordial blessing upon all members of Catholic Action’s children’s and youth groups.
The encounter underscored the Pope’s ongoing emphasis on peace as a lived commitment for Christians, particularly the young, who are called not merely to goodness but to continual growth toward holiness in service of others.
- Raju Hasmukh with files form Vatican News
Related Images:
