Pope Leo XIV Encourages Young Catholics to Remain Faithful After Confirmation

Vatican City, May 16, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has urged young Catholics to remain committed to Christ and continue living their faith after receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, warning against drifting away from the Church after the celebration.

The Pope delivered the message on Saturday during a meeting with around 1,000 young Catholics from the Archdiocese of Genoa in northern Italy, who had travelled to Rome as part of their preparation for Confirmation.

Addressing the young pilgrims, Pope Leo described Confirmation as a special gift of the Holy Spirit that gives believers strength, enthusiasm and courage to follow Jesus.

He said the sacrament provides “the fullness of the Holy Spirit”, enabling young people to remain faithful to Christ and live their faith courageously in a world that often seeks to lead people away from Him.

Referring to the approaching celebration of Pentecost, the Pope recalled how the first disciples received the Holy Spirit and began proclaiming God’s love. He said each young person receiving Confirmation is similarly called to take part in the Church’s mission and bear witness to faith within their families and communities.

Pope Leo also expressed concern that many young people disappear from parish life after receiving the sacrament.

While describing Confirmation as one of the great joys of a bishop’s ministry, he acknowledged that it can also bring sadness when young people no longer return to church afterwards.

He encouraged the confirmands to seek the gift of perseverance and remain active in the life of the Church.

“We do not live the faith alone; we live it together,” the Pope said, stressing the importance of friendship and community in sustaining Christian life.

As the young pilgrims prepare to return home, Pope Leo urged them to remain involved in parish activities and continue their journey as disciples of Christ.

He concluded by encouraging them to make a lasting commitment to remain friends, disciples and missionaries of Jesus, while persevering in their faith throughout their lives.

Pope Leo XIV Encourages Young Catholics to Remain Faithful After Confirmation

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