Deanna Maldonado-Rocha

Pope Leo opened his heart to the young people of Rome, sharing a personal conversation he had with one of his nieces before meeting them during this special Saturday evening gathering. Inspired by the Jubilee of Youth, Rome’s teenagers and young people had asked to meet the Holy Father—and their request was joyfully answered. Paul VI Audience Hall was filled to capacity, with crowds spilling outside and into St. Peter’s Square. Speaking directly to their hopes and struggles, Pope Leo reminded them of a truth that sustains him and should inspire all of us, especially in difficulties: we are never alone, because “Jesus is with us.”