Pope Francis was welcomed by thousands of young Hungarians to a song that is a staple at World Youth Days: Jesus Christ, You Are My Life, which was composed for the youth gathering in Rome the year 2000.
The Pope rode through the crowd on a mini Popemobile. When he sat down on the podium, he was greeted with loud applause from the youth.
Following the testimonies of four young Hungarians who told him how they try to live their faith, the first thing the Pope emphasized was this: God is the exact opposite of an enemy.
POPE FRANCIS
God always forgives. How do you say in Hungarian 'God always forgives' you who are the translator? How do you say it? Make them say it. How do you say it? All of them. Again. Don't forget.
He then encouraged them to work hard for their goals. But to understand their goals, he told them that it is important to know themselves, pray and seek the silence that enables encounter with Jesus.
POPE FRANCIS
What are you looking for? What are you looking for in life? What are you looking for in your heart?
In silence, let us each answer within oursevles: What do I seek?
The Pope encouraged those present to set aside their phone and social media and focus on serving others. He also invited them to participate in the next World Youth Day. When the Pope finished his address, the more than 11,000 youth present burst into an applause.
The event also featured a local touch with performances of traditional Hungarian groups.
JRB
TR: AT