Pope Francis urges Ecuadorian youth to champion peace and forgiveness

Pope Francis addressed young Catholics in Ecuador through a video message released for the VII National Youth Day in Ibarra, held from July 31 to August 2. He called on the youth to be “advocates of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace,” emphasizing the need for joy, courage and witness to Christ’s love.

The Pope asked the participants to listen to God’s call and let divine love transform them, urging them to follow Mary’s example as a model of devotion and evangelisation. He concluded the short video by entrusting the young Ecuadorians to the protection of the Virgin Mary.