Some 70,000 teenagers attended the Papal Mass in St. Peter's Square to celebrate the Jubilee. They participated very actively in the Mass. One of them even dared to sing the psalm.
In his challenging homily, the Pope drew them to the way of happiness. He told them that it consists of learning how to love. He explained that Jesus will teach them how to proceed because he is a friend who always trust and guide people.
POPE FRANCIS
'The true friends of Jesus stand out essentially by the genuine love; not some 'pie in the skyâ? love; no, it is a genuine love that shines forth in their way of life. Love is always shown in real actions. Those who are not real and genuine and who speak of love are like characters in a soap opera, some fake love story. Do you want to experience his love? Do you want this love: yes or no?â?
The Pope asked them to make concrete gestures of friendship and kindness, and deliver their own time and their own abilities. He explained that true freedom does not have to do with doing whatever they want but to learn to also say no.
POPE FRANCIS
'Only by courageous and firm decisions do we realize our greatest dreams, the dreams which it is worth spending our entire lives to pursue. Courageous and noble choices. Do not be content with mediocrity, with 'simply going with the flowâ?, with being comfortable and laid back. Donâ??t believe those who would distract you from the real treasure, which you are, by telling you that life is beautiful only if you have many possessions. Be skeptical about people who want to make you believe that you are only important if you act tough like the heroes in films or if you wear the latest fashions.â?
A group of teenagers brought the Pope part of the alms that had been raised during these days of the Jubilee.
When the Mass ended, the Pope gave some of them a crucifix to not be afraid to talk about God to their friends and to do works of mercy. Before leaving, some were able to greet him personally. Several boys dared to ask for a selfie. But they were not the only ones. Also, these priests returned home with a picture of the Pope on their smartphones.
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