Pope Leo XIV has issued a clarion call to young people, urging them to resist the temptation of living their faith in isolation, especially in the era of social media and digital communication.
In a powerful address to the International Youth Advisory Body (IYAB) today (Friday), the Holy Father emphasized that true Christian faith cannot be lived in isolation but must be shared and experienced within a vibrant, real-life community.
The IYAB, a Vatican advisory body linked to the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, is dedicated to ensuring that the voices of young people are heard in key discussions about the Church’s future.
This week, the IYAB has gathered in Rome, with synodality, mission, and participation as the central themes of their discussions—aiming to address the unique challenges young Catholics face today (Friday).
Pope Leo highlighted the essential role of synodality in fostering a Church that is inclusive and engaged, where faith is not a solitary pursuit but a communal journey.
He acknowledged that digital spaces, with their allure of personal discovery and virtual connections, offer many young people the opportunity to explore faith.
However, he warned that faith discovered online could easily become a personal, detached experience.
He pointed out that while online faith can be comforting and intellectually reassuring, it often remains disconnected from real-world relationships and lived experiences that are central to the Church.
The Pope further stressed that such an online experience of faith, while valuable, does not offer the depth and authenticity of a faith that is rooted in real-life community and participation.
He called on young Catholics to engage actively with one another in the Church, to embrace shared mission, and to ensure their faith is embodied in relationships both within and outside the Church community.
By Newsroom
31st Oct 2025
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