Videomessaggio del Santo Padre in occasione della 1a Giornata della Gioventù dell’Africa Occidentale [7 – 12 settembre 2026] (8 settembre 2026)

In brief

Pope Francis sent a video message to young people participating in the first Day of Youth of West Africa, held from September 7 to 12, 2026. The Pope expressed joy regarding the initiative organized by the bishops' conferences of the participating countries, noting that these leaders have placed young people at the center of their pastoral priorities.

The Pope encouraged the youth to maintain hope despite crises, doubts, and uncertainties that may affect their future plans. He stated that young people are not a sacrificed generation but are the present of the Church. He noted that the energy, dreams, and hopes of the youth are abundant resources for the Church and the world. He also challenged the participants to walk together to help realize positive changes in their societies and to ensure no one is marginalized.