First American Pope Urges Young People to Find Meaning Through Service
In his first address to Americans, Pope Leo XIV shared words of hope and guidance on Saturday, emphasizing the healing power of God's love and service to others. Speaking at the White Sox baseball stadium in Chicago, the pope encouraged those struggling with depression or sadness to discover hope through faith.
The event, organized by the Archdiocese of Chicago to honor Leo's recent election as pope, was a part of the Catholic Church's ongoing Jubilee year of hope declared by Pope Francis. Leo emphasized the importance of being beacons of hope and inspiring others through outreach and service to create a better world for all.
The program, which included music performances and discussions about Leo's roots, highlighted the connection between Catholicism and baseball. Leo, formerly known as Robert Prevost, made history as the first American pope in the church's 2,000-year history.
Leo, who spent years as an Augustinian missionary in Peru before assuming the role of pope, expressed gratitude for the faith and hope he witnessed in the world. The event concluded with a Mass led by Cardinal Blase Cupich, the archbishop of Chicago.