During my stay in Italy for the Youth Jubilee, I had experiences that left a deep impression on me.
I was very happy to see the Pope with my own eyes. It was a unique moment that I will never forget. I also had the good fortune to pass through the Holy Door, which was a moment of great faith.
This trip also allowed me to make new friends. Despite the language differences, everyone made an effort to understand each other, and this created beautiful bonds between us. One of the most significant moments was the visit to the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, where I particularly remember the fresco of the sermon to the birds.
Another significant moment was the embrace we exchanged during the closing prayer on August 1: it was moving, spiritual, and deeply enriching. Claude François Ndiaye
What struck me most was the spirituality of the city, the awareness that Jesus Christ is the savior, but also the beauty of the churches, which reveal an ancient and spiritual aspect. I was also struck by the sight of young people from all over the world participating in the Jubilee: this shows that we must have more confidence in our faith because, with our youth, we will rekindle that flame that springs from the heart of Christ and which is sometimes threatened by worldly things. Marie Pascale
The things that really struck me in Assisi were the city full of believers, the beauty of nature, and the basilicas. The story of St. Francis touched me deeply because he was a dreamer who renounced worldly things to follow Christ.
His encounter with the leper taught me that I must accept every person as they are. Being together also really helped me: even though we were from different cultures, we were united, taking every step together. We helped each other in every situation and made an effort to speak each other’s language.
It was wonderful to see young people from different countries participating in this Jubilee. The meeting with the Pope really touched my heart; I can’t even express the feeling that came over me.
I was struck by the joy we felt at being welcomed by the sisters and young people from other countries such as Brazil, the Philippines, and Italy. The joy and impatience to meet us could be seen in their eyes. The opening Mass of the Jubilee will remain forever etched in our memory, because it was there that we had the grace to see Pope Leo XIV very close to us. It was an incredible feeling that brought tears to my eyes. A true grace! Especially when he said to us: “You are the light of the world,” powerful and truthful words, because young people from all over the world came to bear witness to the love of Christ, but they also came as “Pilgrims of Hope,” because they find their hope in Jesus Christ. Those who find their hope in Him will never be disappointed.
During this pilgrimage, our group, despite linguistic differences, was very lively and despite fatigue, we persevered and supported each other. This unique and incredible group will remain in my heart forever. Rosalie Gnilane Diouf
My experience was filled with peace and joy. The things that struck me most were, first of all, the warm welcome from the Sisters and the other young people. Then there were the visits, the brotherhood, the discovery of new languages, even if it was a little difficult to understand each other. Then there was the meeting with the Pope and with other young people from all over the world. Valentine Ndour
Our trip to Italy was a fantastic experience, full of joy and happiness, because when we arrived in Vermicino we were warmly welcomed by everyone. The next morning we left for Assisi, where we learned many things, such as the history of St. Clare, St. Francis of Assisi, and even Carlo Acutis, who impressed me greatly: a young man who dedicated his life to God through the Internet and who is called the patron saint of the Internet.
In Rome, we also had wonderful encounters with other pilgrims. Even though we didn’t speak the same language, we managed to communicate and it was beautiful.
This jubilee will remain forever etched in my heart. Augustin Ndour
I was deeply struck by the beauty of nature, the spirituality of the country, and the beauty of the churches I visited. St. Francis’ encounter with the leper moved me greatly. This image reflects my life today and makes me question how I live with my brothers and sisters; whether I pay attention to them or help those in need. St. Francis stripped himself bare before the world because of his love for God. It reminds me of Christ’s sacrifice for humanity and the salvation of all. Finally, I was struck by the opening Mass with the gathering of young people from all over the world, as well as meeting Pope Leo for the first time. It was truly a blessing and I thank God for his wonders. Pre-novice Marie Angèle Coly
