Pope Leo invites young people to World Youth Day in Seoul as registration opens: 'He calls each of you by name'

In a video message this week Pope Leo XIV invited young Catholics to attend World Youth Day in Seoul, South Korea, in 2027, urging them to answer the Lord’s call to a deeper encounter with Him.

In an Oct. 22 video message marking the opening of registration for World Youth Day, the Holy Father said the event is more than an opportunity to visit a new city, describing it as a pilgrimage of faith, friendship, and hope.

“A pilgrimage gives you the chance not only to discover Christian sites in another location, but also to find the time and space to encounter God more deeply, both personally and within the dynamic life of the Church,” Pope Leo said. “In Seoul, you will meet young people from all across the world, representing a beautiful and rich variety of languages and cultures. Yet, despite these differences, and indeed because of your God-given diversity, you will experience an even greater sense of unity, for we are all members of the one Body of Christ.”

The Pontiff said the event, which will take place Aug. 3-8, will offer young people an opportunity to grow in faith and friendship.

“This occasion, therefore, will be a special opportunity both to deepen your faith and to encounter your brothers and sisters in Christ, and I hope you will make joyful memories and form friendships that will last a lifetime,” he said.

The Holy Father also noted that the opening of registration coincided with the feast of St. John Paul II, who established World Youth Day in 1985 and whose words of encouragement reflected the theme of the 2027 gathering: “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16:33).

“Providentially, today we celebrate the liturgical memory of Saint John Paul II who continuously proclaimed to all peoples: ‘Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ,’” the Pope said, quoting the late Pontiff. “These words also apply to each one of you, so on this pilgrimage, bring all that you are and all that you carry in your hearts, including your dreams, desires, and hopes, as well as your wounds and struggles.”

Pope Leo concluded his message by encouraging young people to consider attending the gathering.

“The Lord is waiting for you in this place of encounter and communion,” the Pope said. “He calls each of you by name and he desires to reawaken your hope and to give you the fullness of life and joy.”

The message comes as Pope Leo continues his recovery from lung cancer surgery. As Zeale News previously reported, doctors announced Oct. 21 that no further treatment was necessary following the removal of a localized lung adenocarcinoma Oct. 13.

At his Oct. 21 general audience, his first since surgery, Pope Leo thanked the faithful for their prayers during his recovery, saying, “Thank you for the support of your prayers. Thanks be to God for His generosity. Let us all renew our trust in God’s goodness and mercy.”