Pope Leo XIV urges West African youth to be builders of bridges

Pope Leo XIV addressed young Catholics during the inaugural West African Youth Day (WAYD) held in Accra, Ghana, from September 7 to 12. In a video message, the Pope encouraged participants from 16 West African countries to reject the idea that they are a “sacrificed generation,” instead describing them as “the today of God” and “the today of the Church.”

Addressing the challenges of insecurity, unemployment, and regional crises, the Pope urged the youth to remain hopeful and to act as “builders of bridges” between different nations, cultures, and religions. He emphasized the importance of inclusion, stating that walking together requires ensuring that no one is marginalized, isolated, or excluded.

The event, organized by the Regional Episcopal Conference of West Africa (RECOWA), aims to foster faith and values such as dialogue and openness. The Pope challenged the youth to use their energy and talents to become witnesses of love, justice, and peace in a world often troubled by conflict.