Pope Leo XIV Engages Young People in Historic Digital Audience at NCYC 2025

Vatican City, Nov 22, 2025: Pope Leo XIV made history by offering a digital audience to young people gathered at the 2025 National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC). Speaking live from the Vatican, he addressed thousands of teens, emphasising their vital place at the heart of the Church. He reminded them that they are not only the future but the present, urging them to recognise the importance of their voices, ideas, and witness.

He encouraged the young people to deepen their involvement in parish life by attending Sunday Mass, joining youth activities, and embracing opportunities that help their faith grow. “The more you come to know Jesus,” he told them, “the more you will want to serve Him and His Church.”

Five youths selected from across the United States had the opportunity to pose questions directly to the Holy Father, allowing him to speak to their struggles from a pastoral and relatable perspective.

Mia from the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Maryland, asked whether it is difficult for him to accept God’s mercy when he makes mistakes or lets people down. Pope Leo XIV responded gently: “None of us is perfect.”

Ezekiel from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles wanted to know how he could truly give his problems to God and feel that God is close to him. The Pope reassured him with the words: “He is near to the brokenhearted, even if we don’t feel it.”

Chris from the Archdiocese of Las Vegas raised concerns about balancing modern technology—social media, smartphones, tablets—with making meaningful faith connections offline. The Pope reminded him: “When two or more are gathered in his name, He is with them.”

Micah from the Diocese of Honolulu asked what young people should be cautious of when using artificial intelligence. Pope Leo XIV offered measured guidance: “Be prudent, be wise, be careful that your use of AI does not limit your true human growth; use it in such a way that if it disappeared tomorrow, you would still know how to think.”

Elise from the Archdiocese of Dubuque, Iowa, questioned how the Church is preparing for the future. The Pope responded with confidence in the Church’s enduring mission: “The gates of hell will not prevail against the Church.”

These exchanges highlighted the Pope’s ability to weave scripture and pastoral wisdom into conversations that resonated powerfully with young people. His responses consistently encouraged them to seek silence, spend time in adoration, go to confession, pray, and serve the poor. He especially underlined the significance of forming real friendships with peers rooted in faith.

For those who wish to listen to the dialogue or share it with their own parish communities, the conference link remains available.

The event moderator, Katie McGrady, later remarked that when she asked the Pope what he hopes teens will take away from the session, he replied: “If you want to change the world, begin with letting the Lord change you.”

The digital audience left a lasting impression on all who participated, marking a meaningful and memorable moment in the Church’s engagement with young people.

Pope Leo XIV Engages Young People in Historic Digital Audience at NCYC 2025

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