A group of young people from Córdoba has returned from Madrid with a profound sense of transformation after participating in recent encounters with Pope Leo XIV. The experience, described as "spectacular" and "a gift," has deeply impacted attendees, who highlight the Pontiff's closeness and messages.
During the vigil held on Saturday, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of "evocation" and "meeting each other face-to-face," messages that particularly resonated with the youth. The mission entrusted to them is clear: to be a "spark" in their communities, to "ignite this light and communicate the joy" experienced with the Holy Father.
One of the pilgrims, who previously attended World Youth Day with Pope Benedict XVI in 2011, described the experience as "revitalizing." This young person, who works at Córdoba's Diocesan School for Leisure Time, was able to see the Pope up close in an area very near to where the Pontiff was speaking.
The solemn Mass presided over by the Pope in Plaza de Cibeles drew between 1.2 and 1.5 million people, according to police estimates. Attendees could follow the event closely or via giant screens, on a day that coincided with the Corpus Christi feast and a procession led by the Pope.
“"It was very emotional, it met our expectations, and we return with full hearts."
Other phrases highlighted by attendees include the invitation to be "real people" and the possibility of "changing history, but doing so from love." The "experience that every Catholic should live" is emphasized for the unity and hope it conveys.
We leave with the certainty that we are not alone, that there are reasons for hope and for finding answers.
The young people from Córdoba return with the conviction that "there are reasons for hope" and "to be encouraged," carrying with them the Pope's message to "change the world from love," feeling themselves to be "motors of change for a better world."
